How to Find Relief from Common Types of Eye Allergies

At-Home Eye Allergy Remedies

Though these common eye allergies vary in their symptoms and causes, there are some at-home treatments you can try that should relieve the discomfort from your symptoms.

Common Home Treatments Available for Allergies

The most recommended suggestion for reducing eye allergies is reducing your exposure to indoor and outdoor allergens. Depending on the allergens you're sensitive to, one or both common irritants could contribute to your allergies. Avoiding spending too much time outdoors when possible and installing an air purifier indoors to reduce indoor allergens are common recommendations. A humidifier might relieve your eye irritation if you live in a drier environment.

Additionally, we recommend trying over-the-counter eye replacement drops if you have difficulty producing tears. Over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines can also relieve symptoms. In the case of Vernal, Atopic, or Giant Papillary allergies, taking a break from wearing your contacts can help reduce your symptoms. Prescription eyedrops are also a reliable relief from these specific allergy symptoms. If you try these home remedies and are still having difficulty finding relief, contact one of our eye care professionals. At Clarkson Eyecare, we'll find a solution for you. 

Pataday - One Drop Relief

If you're looking for eye drop solution recommendations, the eyecare professionals at Clarkson Eyecare can help. Our eye care professionals recommend Pataday, an eye drop solution that treats allergies. It treats itching and redness from allergy symptoms so that you can enjoy your day without irritation. Additionally, buying Pataday from Clarkson Eyecare can reduce the cost you would pay over the counter. Pick up your Pataday eye drops to relieve your allergy symptoms today!

6 Types of Eye Allergies

There are six common types of eye allergies you may be experiencing, especially if your symptoms are frequent. If your symptoms persist after using home remedies, consult one of our eye doctors to learn more about available treatments.

1. Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis

Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC) is an eye allergy during spring, summer, or fall. SAC symptoms are often triggered depending on the air's pollen type. The two most common types of plant pollen that cause symptoms of seasonal allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC) are grass pollen and ragweed. This is because their blooming seasons last for an extended period. Grass pollen season typically starts in April and ends in June, while ragweed season starts in late August and can last until early winter. Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC) symptoms can include itchiness, redness, burning sensations, increased tear production, dark circles, puffy eyes, and light sensitivity.

2. Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis

Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis (PAC) has similar symptoms to SAC. These mild symptoms occur year-round and have different triggers than SAC. PAC triggers include allergens such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, and other household irritants. Due to the increased sensitivity to indoor environmental allergens, outdoor allergens contribute to the year-round response.

3. Contact Allergic Conjunctivitis

Contact Allergic Conjunctivitis can occur when wearing contact lenses, as the proteins from your tears can accumulate under the surface of the lens and cause eye irritation. This condition displays an allergic reaction in response to the contact lens rather than an external allergen. It can lead to discomfort, redness, and itching in the eyes. Symptoms of contact allergic Conjunctivitis include discomfort while wearing contact lenses, itchiness, redness, and mucous discharge from the eyes.

4. Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis typically has more severe symptoms than SAC or PAC. This type of eye allergy occurs year-round, but certain seasons may worsen the symptoms. Typically, this type of allergy is common in boys and young men, with 75% of patients also experiencing eczema or asthma. 

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis can cause symptoms such as itching, increased tear and mucous production, light sensitivity, and the sensation of something stuck in the eye. In more severe cases, if untreated for too long, vernal keratoconjunctivitis can cause vision impairment.

5. Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis

Older patients are mainly prone to Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis, especially men prone to allergic dermatitis. Like PAC, indoor and outdoor allergens can trigger this type of eye allergy. Similar to Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis, it can also cause similar symptoms and scarring to the cornea if left untreated for too long. Atopic keratoconjunctivitis symptoms include severe itching, burning sensations, redness, and a significant increase in mucous production.

6. Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis is a more severe form of Contact Allergic Conjunctivitis. This allergy occurs when patients wear contact lenses for extended periods. Like Contact Allergic Conjunctivitis, Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis occurs from protein deposits underneath the contact. Additionally, irritation depends on the type of contact lens or the type of contact solution used. Other allergens, especially chronic allergies, can also contribute to irritation. The symptoms of this eye allergy most commonly affect the inside of the eyelid. Eyelid symptoms can include a rough, textured sensation, redness, abnormal swelling of the skin around the eye, and the formation of bumps under the eyelid.

Symptoms that affect the eyeball include redness, itchiness, excessive mucous production, and blurry vision. You may experience feelings of something stuck in your eye or that your contact is moving around on your eye.