Eye Allergies
Eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, are an inflammatory reaction in the eyes caused by an immune response to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, tearing, and swollen eyelids.
Treatment involves avoiding triggers, using antihistamine eye drops, taking oral antihistamines, or using preservative-free artificial tears to flush out allergens and relieve symptoms.
What Are Eye Allergies?
Eye allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances (allergens) that come into contact with the eyes.
This reaction releases histamine, which causes inflammation and swelling of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and lining the eyelids.
They can be seasonal, triggered by pollen, or ongoing, caused by dust mites or pets.
Common Triggers
Outdoor allergens: Pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds.
Indoor allergens: Pet dander, dust mites, and mold.
Irritants: Smoke, perfumes, and pollutants.
Other: Cosmetics and preservatives in eye drops can also cause reactions.
Symptoms
Redness and itching in both eyes.
Burning or gritty feeling.
Watery eyes.
Swollen eyelids.
Increased sensitivity to light.
Other allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose or sneezing.
Management and Treatment
Avoidance: Stay indoors during high pollen counts and keep windows closed.
Antihistamine eye drops: These block inflammation on the eye's surface.
Artificial tears: Preservative-free options can help flush allergens from the eyes.
Oral antihistamines: Medications like Levrix or Telfast can also provide relief.
Consult a professional: Your pharmacist, optometrist or doctor can diagnose eye allergies and recommend appropriate treatment.
Clear eyes-A
Clear Eyes-A is a uniquely formulated sterile eye drop that not only removes redness and moisturises your eyes, but also has an extra ingredient for relief of airborne allergen symptoms.
Clear Eyes-A is a triple-action formula that has an extra ingredient to clear away mucus buildup and relieve the itching associated with exposure to airborne allergens.
It will immediately remove redness, and moisturise irritated eyes.
Clear Eyes-A is useful for temporary relief of redness due to minor eye irritation and for protection against further irritation or dryness of the eye.
Directions
Instil 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily.
Ingredients
Naphazoline Hydrochloride 0.012%, Glycerin 0.2%, Zinc sulfate 0.25%
Warnings
First check with your Pharmacist that Clear Eyes is right for you. If you experience eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness or irritation of the eye, or if the condition worsens or persists for more than 72 hours, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
While your eyes are irritated and inflamed, avoid using eye make-up such as eye shadow, eyeliner and other cosmetics around the eye. Also, avoid using contact lenses until the condition is under control.
For more information:
https://healthify.nz/health-a-z/a/allergic-conjunctivitis
https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/c/conjunctivitis
