How Can Eye Allergies be Managed at Home?

Seasonal allergies (including hay fever) afflict around 50 million Americans, causing multiple life-hampering symptoms. These symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion, commonly affecting the eyes. Ocular allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, can be mild or more serious, causing untold exasperation through unpleasant effects such as stinging, redness, light sensitivity, and other ailments.

Fortunately, our specialists at inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham are here to offer you the most effective treatment strategies possible. And the treatments for eye allergies can be quick and easy. Contact us today to discover how you can alleviate the discomfort through simple, at-home management strategies in Birmingham, AL.

What's causing my eye allergies?

Eye allergies are also called allergic conjunctivitis because they irritate the conjunctiva, a thin tissue that lines the eyelids and covers the white of the eye. Allergies can be caused by various allergens, including non-harmful substances, that enter the eye. Common irritants include pet dander, animal hair, pollen, dust mites, and more toxic substances, including smoke and environmental pollutants.

Additionally, those who wear contact lenses may be more prone to suffering the effects of allergies since these various particles could become trapped on or under the lens. It's also possible that your symptoms are caused by some other ocular ailment, such as an infection. In either case, call or visit us if you're reeling from inflammation, redness, stinging, itching, excessive watering, light sensitivity, or other unpleasant symptoms, so we can get to the root of your issues and provide a personalized treatment.

How can I manage my eye allergies at home?

The first step, and half the battle, involves ascertaining which agents are causing your allergic woes. Then, we can formulate an optimal treatment plan based on your lifestyle factors and other unique needs. One of the best ways to avoid allergies is to avoid the offending allergen, though this is not always easy or even possible. Other treatment plans also focus on daily modifications, including keeping the windows shut, being extra careful on days with high pollen counts, and wearing glasses while outside.

Patients can also use air purifiers or humidifiers to help get rid of allergens or combat the symptoms of ocular allergies, respectively. Additionally, individuals can opt for hypoallergenic items and avoid products with heavy scents. And, of course, we can offer additional relief through eye drops, artificial tears, and suggestions for antihistamines or other helpful products. Finally, those who wear contacts could gain relief by switching to daily-wear options.

Alleviate eye allergies in Birmingham

There's no reason to wait. Allergies can be an exasperating hurdle that gets in the way of your daily duties and hobbies. Plus, if left untreated, allergies can increase the risk of pink eye and similar bacterial infections, as well as corneal injuries. Despite the prevalence and annoyance of eye allergies, we're happy to offer you a full spectrum of treatment strategies in Birmingham, AL. Contact us at inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham to find relief and reclaim your daily comfort.