EYE ALLERGY TREATMENT WITH OUR SAN DIEGO OPTOMETRIST
Those red, watery, itchy eyes may be trying to tell you something -- namely, that you have an eye allergy. Environmental and seasonal allergies can make you miserable and even interfere with your eyesight until you get the source of the allergy identified and treated. That's why it's good to have trusted professionals on your team at Midway Optometry. Our San Diego optometrist can diagnose eye allergies and provide the necessary eye allergy treatment to help you get through life as clear-eyed as possible.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
An allergy is a histamine over-reaction by the immune system to a harmless substance which, for whatever reason, is misinterpreted as a threat to the body. These reactions usually cause a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis. In allergic conjunctivitis, the white of the eye may turn pink or red. Other eye allergy symptoms include swollen eyelids, itchy eyes, watery eyes, and extreme sensitivity to light. The constant watering may even blur your vision.
Eye Allergy Causes
You can develop allergies to practically anything, including triggers that never produced allergic reactions previously. (In some cases, this may simplify the result of moving into a more allergen-rich environment). Seasonal allergies are often caused by varieties of tree pollens and grasses that become active at specific times of the year. Perennial (year-round) eye allergies may be caused by internal triggers such as pet dander, mold/mildew, and dust. They may also be caused by exposure to smoke, airborne chemicals, perfume, and automotive exhaust. It's even possible to be allergic to your eye makeup or contact lenses, a situation that causes giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC).
Relief for Itchy, Watery Eyes
Bring your itchy, watery eyes to Midway Optometry so we can get to the bottom of your eye allergies. Our doctors, can perform an eye exam to determine whether your problems are allergic in nature or related to a lookalike condition such as an infection or dry eye. If you have no idea what you might be allergic to, we can perform allergy testing to pinpoint the offending substance. We may then recommend:
- Soothing artificial eye drops to keep the eyes comfortable and clean
- Antihistamines or corticosteroids
- Oral antihistamines
- Allergy shots
- Wraparound sunglasses and other strategies for airborne particles out of your eyes
- Home hygiene strategies such as changing your bedding or cosmetic routines
- Contact lenses that are less likely to trigger GPC
Call Midway Optometry to Schedule Your Eye Exam in San Diego
Eye allergies can be treated when you have the right help. Have Midway Optometry on your side! Call our optometrist near Point Loma at (619) 224-2973 to schedule a consultation so we can help you manage your eye allergies.