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Ocular allergies occur when the immune system reacts to otherwise harmless substances, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold spores, or other indoor and seasonal allergens, triggering inflammation in the delicate membrane covering the eye. One of the most common forms is called allergic conjunctivitis, which can cause itchy eyes, watery eyes, redness, swollen eyelids, and sensitivity to light. Eye allergy symptoms may occur during allergy season with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis or persist year-round with perennial allergic conjunctivitis. With a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, an eye doctor can identify the allergens responsible and recommend treatment options, including prescription eye drops, artificial tears, allergy shots, or other medical treatment to alleviate symptoms and protect overall eye health.
In the U.S., an estimated 50 million people are affected by allergies. The eyes are commonly affected by symptoms during allergy season. Itchy, swollen, and irritated eyes are common annoying eye allergy symptoms among allergy sufferers and often go hand in hand with nasal allergies. Like our skin, our eyes are constantly exposed to the environment and are bombarded by airborne allergens, including dust mites, pet dander, dirt, mold, and pollen. Patients can even be allergic to the beauty products that they use around the eye! Two of the most common ocular conditions caused by allergies are called allergic conjunctivitis and contact dermatitis. At Kung Eye, we perform advanced allergy testing to pinpoint specific causes so we can create a unique, personalized treatment plan. Allergy eye drops and allergy shots are just a few treatments we offer for treating eye allergies / allergic conjunctivitis.
The eye is covered by a thin, skin-like layer called the conjunctiva. This layer helps protect the eye from the environment. When airborne debris such as pollen or dander gets into the eye, it can cause an allergic reaction–this is known as allergic conjunctivitis. Acute allergic conjunctivitis or seasonal allergic conjunctivitis occurs short-term and is most common during allergy season (especially when pollen counts are high), while chronic allergic conjunctivitis can occur year-round.
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis or seasonal allergies often develop rapidly after exposure to an allergen. The moderate to severe eye allergy symptoms can include:
Gain a deeper understanding about the topics, conditions, and procedures discussed on this page by watching our informational videos.
Contact Dermatitis is an allergic reaction of the eyes and eyelids from direct contact with an allergen. Fragrances and dyes in detergents, preservatives in lubricating eye drops or contact lenses, makeup, and moisturizers are the most common culprits. In patients with atopic contact dermatitis, allergies can cause symptoms. For those with irritant contact dermatitis, contact with an irritating substance is the cause of symptoms. Regardless of what form of dermatitis you have, the result can be uncomfortable.
Symptoms of contact dermatitis of the eyelid include:
If you are affected by eye allergies and live in the Staten Island or East Brunswick area, the doctors at Kung Eye Center can help tailor the best treatment for you to stop the irritation and help you get back to living your life.
Please call our New York office at (929) 429-2928 or our New Jersey office at (732) 724-2535 with any questions you may have.
STATEN ISLAND, NY EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ
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Dr. Kung’s mastery in ophthalmology means you will receive thoroughly informed recommendations for vision correction and maintenance, and that your treatment will be expertly performed for the best possible results.
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