Allergies

Eyes are especially sensitive to allergies, causing many uncomfortable (or disabling) symptoms to make a patient miserable. Due to the complex nature of the eyes, special treatment and attention should be paid to treating allergies and the symptoms created by allergies.

The list of allergy symptoms is long:

• Redness

• Swelling

• Itchiness

• Gritty feeling

• Light sensitivity

• Dry eye

• Stinging

• The feeling of something in the eye

Allergies can be caused by many different things. Allergens can be environmental. Pollen, pet dander, dust, insects, and mold spores can initiate allergy symptoms and lead to fatigue and other illnesses as they attack the immune system. It is easier to become ill during allergy outbreaks.

No matter the cause or the symptoms, Eye Care Associates of Bethany can help make your life more comfortable with allergy management.

Many patients dread spring and fall when weeds, grass, and trees pollinate. The most common eye allergy sets in during these times. These allergies are called seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, causing many of the symptoms of allergies.

The eye contains “mast cells.” When exposed to allergens, blood vessels dilate when the mast cells release histamines. The mucous membranes begin to itch, and the eye tissues become inflamed. Itching is triggered when the histamines cling to the nerve cell receptors. Expansion of the blood vessels allows for the allergic molecules in the bloodstream to flow more freely into the eye. The side effects can range from mild to severe.