ALLERGY-RELATED EYE SYMPTOMS

People with allergies can sometimes experience eye symptoms without realising that these are caused by their allergy. Here, you can find information about the most common allergy-related eye symptoms, how to recognise them and advice on when you should visit an eye care professional.

If you are suffering from these symptoms, which can include red eyes, swollen eyelids, and an itching sensation, you can also find products designed to help alleviate discomfort from allergic eye symptoms.

Allergies can cause somebody to experience a variety of related eye symptoms, including red, watery or teary eyes, swollen eyelids, itchiness, or dry eye. These symptoms might flare up when somebody encounters one or more allergens, although symptoms can persist even when an allergy-sufferer is no longer in contact with whatever is causing the reaction. Depending on how severe the allergy is, these symptoms can be mild or more extreme.

When the whites of the eyes appear red, puffy and milky, you could be dealing with acute allergic conjunctivitis which often causes puffiness of the eyelids too. This normally happens when somebody first encounters an allergen such as pollen. When these symptoms only appear at certain times of the year, this is known as seasonal allergic conjunctivitis which is usually caused by pollen released by trees, grass and weeds. Meanwhile, those with year-round symptoms might be experiencing perennial allergic conjunctivitis which is typically caused by dust, dust mites or moulds.

Because eye allergies often leave the surface of the eye inflamed, this can disrupt the natural tear film of the eye and cause soreness, grittiness and a burning sensation. For some people, this can mean that persistent allergy symptoms may cause dry eye. The nature of some allergy medications can also lead to dry eye symptoms in some cases.

Dry eyes

Eyes with a gritty, dry, stinging or burning sensation

Red eyes

Eyes which have a red appearance, as well as inflamed and irritated.

Swollen eyelids

Eyelids which are larger in size, puffy and swollen.

Tearing or watery eyes

Eyes that run or tear more than usual.

Foreign body sensation in the eye

Feeling like there is dirt, grit or a foreign object in your eyes.

Itchy eyes

An itchy and scratchy sensation in the eyes that makes you want to rub them.

Tired eyes

Tiredness in the eyes or heavy eyelids when you don’t feel physically tired.

Other allergy symptoms

You may also experience other allergy-related symptoms, such as a running nose or sneezing.

When to see an eye care professional

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above for any length of time, especially if they’re a cause for concern or something doesn’t feel right, we recommend seeking help from an eye care professional such as your local optometrist or pharmacist.

Products for ALLERGY-related eye symptoms

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