Allergens affect the eyes the same way it does the body that is by causing an allergic reaction that can be detrimental to your health. Eye allergies are fairly common and occur when the eyes react to an irritant. To counter an allergen, the immune system produces histamine, which can cause the eyelid and conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the inside of your eyelids and white part of your eye) to become swollen, red, itchy, and at times is accompanied by a burning sensation.
Learn all about how to identify the symptoms and treat the allergies effectively below.
Symptoms & Causes of Eye Allergies
If you suspect you might have eye allergies, be on the lookout for these symptoms:
- Watery eyes and discharge
- Itchy or burning sensation
- Red or pink eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Scaling around the eyes
- Fatigue and trouble falling asleep
Eye allergies may be seasonal or perennial and can be caused by allergens in the air, but you don’t always have to come in direct contact with a trigger to have an allergic response. Most commonly, eye allergies can be caused by air pollution, adverse reactions to chemical substances found in perfumes, and even specific foods. In some cases, eye allergies can be hereditary. If one or both your parents suffer from eye allergies, you’re more likely to have them, as well.
Common environmental triggers include dust, perfume, smoke, spores from mold, chlorine, dust mites, and more. If your symptoms are characterized by constant itching or sensitivity to light, your eye allergies might be severe. Left untreated, these symptoms can cause sight-threatening problems. To ensure you receive the proper care, visit an eye specialist in Dubai to receive treatment and relief from itchy or swollen eyes.
What Happens if Left Untreated?
Most eye allergies are not dangerous. However, when left untreated for long periods of time, complications arise and the severity of the symptoms may become unbearable. Early intervention and proper treatment can help you treat allergies completely.
Some long-term complications of untreated eye allergies include:
- Internal infections: Eye allergies can cause internal infections that are detrimental to your vision. If you suspect that your symptoms continue to worsen, visit an eye doctor in Dubai to receive emergency care.
- Blurred vision: Depending on the severity of the allergy, you might experience blurred vision, but you should be able to see clearly when you blink or wipe away any watery discharge. if you find that the condition persists and continues to get severe, it’s important to see a specialist because this could be a potential complication of untreated eye allergies.
- Vision damage: Untreated allergies can also cause lasting damage to your vision, so don’t suffer in silence. Even if your eye allergy symptoms seem infrequent or less severe at first, heed the warning signs and visit your nearest eye hospital in Dubai for a checkup.
How to Prevent Eye Allergies
Eye allergies may be unavoidable, especially if it’s inherited, but there are some steps you can take to prevent allergies from becoming more severe, such as:
- Limit exposure to known allergens, such as pollen, dust, or mold
- Keep pets out of your bedroom
- Rinse your eyes when you get home
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes
- Wear protective sunglasses to shield your eyes
- Use hypoallergenic soaps and cosmetics
- Use an air purifier
At Ebsaar Eye Surgery Center, our team of eye specialists is ready to help alleviate your symptoms and provide the best-fit treatments. Book an appointment and gain relief from your dry eyes today.