Pictures of Allergy Eyes: Symptoms and Treatment Options

What Causes Itchy Eyes?

Itchy eyes are a common annoyance that can disrupt your day. Red, irritated eyes may be caused by allergic reactions, infections, or simply dryness and fatigue.

Common Causes of Itchy Eyes

Some of the most frequent culprits behind itchy, irritated eyes include:

• Allergies like seasonal allergic conjunctivitis
• Bacterial or viral infections
• Dry eyes
• Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
• Contact lens overuse
• Eye strain

Identifying Allergic Eyes

Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis typically causes itchy, watery, red eyes much like common hay fever. It's your body's inflammatory reaction as it tries to flush out harmless pollen or pet dander that has come in contact with your eyes.

Symptoms of Ocular Allergies

In addition to itchiness and redness, other allergy eye symptoms may include:

• Burning, stinging sensation
• Excess tearing or watery discharge
• Swollen eyelids
• Gritty feeling like something is in your eye
• Puffy eyes, under-eye circles
• Rubbing eyes makes them more irritated

When to See Your Doctor

Mild allergy eye symptoms may be managed effectively with over-the-counter eyedrops. But if your symptoms persist beyond a week or two, worsen, or significantly disrupt your regular routine, contact your eye doctor.

Pictures of Allergy Eyes

Allergy eyes can look irritated, pinkish, and watery. The whites of eyes may have a somewhat swollen, protruding appearance in more severe cases.

Mild Allergy Eye Symptoms

Mild seasonal allergic conjunctivitis may cause intermittent itchiness, redness, and watery eyes. There is no discharge or crusting around the eyes. Symptoms flare up when exposed to triggers then resolve.

Moderate Allergy Eye Symptoms

When allergy eyes become more persistently irritated, swelling and redness becomes more noticeable. Watery discharge may increase. Eyes appear tired and bothered.

Severe Allergy Eye Symptoms

With repeated rubbing from itchiness, the skin around eyes can become raw and weepy. More fluid discharge accumulates. Prominent veins appear on the whites of eyes. Symptoms prevent normal functioning without medication.

Distinguishing Allergy Eyes from Infections

Both allergies and eye infections trigger irritation, redness, and puffiness. But some key differences help set them apart:

Allergy Eyes

• Affects both eyes
• Itching and burning are main symptoms
• Excess tear production, watery discharge
• No eye pain
• Symptoms come and go
• Rubbing makes it worse

Infected Eyes

• Usually starts in one eye
• Sensitivity to light, eye pain common
• Thick, yellow/green discharge
• Feeling like something is stuck in eye
• Blurred vision, light sensitivity
• Rubbing doesnt significantly worsen

Is it Allergies or Dry Eyes?

Since irritants like pollen or dander trigger tear production, it may seem strange allergy eyes could be confused with dry eye. But once tear reserves get depleted, eyes grow irritated.

Allergy Eyes

• Affects both eyes
• Intense itchiness, burning
• Watery discharge
• Symptoms come and go

Dry Eyes

• Usually both eyes
• Gritty, scratchy, sore feeling
• Struggle to produce tears
• Ongoing symptoms

Relieving Allergy Eye Discomfort

Avoid Triggers

As much as possible, steer clear of known eye allergy triggers like pollen, pet dander, mold, dust mites. Monitor pollen/mold counts.

Cold Compresses

Apply cool, damp washcloths over closed eyes to soothe inflamed tissue and wash away allergens. Don't rub.

OTC Antihistamine Eyedrops

Reduces inflammation and itching. May combine mast cell stabilizer. Follow package directions.

Prescription Eyedrops

For moderate to severe allergy eyes, prescription steroid or mast cell stabilizing eyedrops can be stronger and longer-lasting.

Oral Antihistamines

Systemic anti-allergy medications like Allegra, Claritin or Zyrtec ease ocular allergy relief throughout body.

Wash Bedding Weekly

Dust mites in sheets and pillows can aggravate eye allergies while sleeping. Wash in hot water.

Seeing Clearly Again

Identifying whether allergy irritation or another culprit lies behind your red, itchy eyes guides you toward the right relief. With the many over-the-counter and prescription remedies newly available, you dont have to just live with suffering through allergy season or perennial eye woes. Discover which options provide you the fastest, most complete relief.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.