Eye Allergies

2020 Family Vision

Optometry & Pediatric Optometry located in Novi, MI & Lake Orion, MI

If you suffer from frequent red, irritated eyes, you may have allergies. At Michigan Eye and Contact Lens in Novi, Michigan, effective solutions are available for relieving the pain and irritation of eye allergies. Comprehensive diagnostics and treatment are provided to reduce redness and discomfort and help prevent allergy attacks in the future. Michigan Eye and Contact Lens services patients in Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Commerce, Milford, South Lyon, Northville, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Plymouth, Birmingham, Livonia, Brighton, Bingham Farms, Bloomfield Township, White Lake, and Highland, MI. Schedule a consultation online or by phone to learn more about eye allergy treatments.

Eye Allergies Q & A

What are eye allergies?

An eye allergy is a common condition that occurs when your immune system overreacts to an otherwise harmless substance. Your eyes produce histamine in response to an allergen, which results in allergy symptoms.

Common substances that trigger eye allergies include:

Food
Mold
Pollen
Pet dander
Dust mites

Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. In some cases, they can disrupt your daily life.

Symptoms may be persistent throughout the year, seasonal, or triggered by specific activities or environments.

What are the symptoms of eye allergies?

When you come into contact with an allergen, you may experience one or more symptoms. Eye allergies can irritate the delicate membrane covering your eye, causing redness and discomfort. Your eyes may also become swollen enough to interrupt vision.

Other common eye allergy symptoms include:

Watery eyes
Sneezing
Coughing
Sinus pressure
Shortness of breath
Discomfort or decreased time while wearing contact lenses

If you have asthma, contact with allergy triggers can result in an asthma attack.

Allergy symptoms can be persistent or intermittent based on environmental factors, such as seasonal changes.

Proper eye care during an allergy attack is important to prevent damage. Rubbing or scratching itchy, watery eyes can result in long-term damage to the cornea and other parts of your eyes.

How are eye allergies diagnosed?

Comprehensive diagnostic testing is available to confirm eye allergies. Medical history is reviewed and symptoms are evaluated.

Symptoms of eye allergies can be similar to other eye conditions, including infections. Additional testing may be conducted to rule out other conditions and determine your triggers.