Eye allergies are much more than just a nuisance. If left untreated, they may lead to more serious conditions such as conjunctivitis or even vision loss. If you suffer from eye allergies, the first step is to see an optometrist/ophthalmologist for a proper diagnosis. At Lavenburg Medical Group, our team of ophthalmology/optometry specialists are here to help residents of Newark, DE, and Elkton, MD, , get the relief they need.
What Causes Eye Allergies?
Many different things can cause eye allergies, including:
- Dust mites
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Cosmetics
- Fragrances
- Cigarette smoke
These substances are known as allergens, and when they come into contact with your eyes, they can cause a variety of symptoms:
- Itching
- Redness
- Watering
- Swelling
- Burning
- Excessive tearing
These symptoms rarely go away on their own and can often worsen over time if not properly treated.
How Are Eye Allergies Treated by an Optometrist/Ophthalmologist?
There are several different ways to treat eye allergies, depending on the severity of your symptoms. For milder cases, over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as antihistamines and artificial tears may be all that is needed to provide relief.
For more moderate to severe cases, an optometrist/ophthalmologist on our team may prescribe stronger medications such as corticosteroids or immunotherapy. Corticosteroids can be taken orally or applied directly to the eyes, and work by reducing inflammation and allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy, on the other hand, is a long-term treatment that involves slowly exposing the body to increasing amounts of the allergen to build up immunity.
In addition, an optometrist/ophthalmologist on our team will also recommend lifestyle changes that can help to reduce your exposure to allergens and lessen your symptoms. These changes may include:
- Wearing glasses or sunglasses when outdoors
- Staying indoors when pollen levels are high
- Showering and changing clothes after being outdoors
- Keeping windows and doors shut
- Vacuuming regularly
- Avoiding triggers such as Fragrances, cigarette smoke, and pet dander
In addition, eye allergy symptoms can also mimic other eye conditions such as the pink eye. For this reason, it is important to see an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis so that you can get the treatment you need. Our eye care will ensure you get the treatment you need for eye allergies or other conditions.
Get Help For Eye Allergies At Lavenburg Medical Group Today
At Lavenburg Medical Group, we have a dedicated team that is here to help residents of Newark DE, and Elkton MD, get the relief they need. Call Lavenburg Medical Group today at (302) 993-0722 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.