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Under Eye Allergy – Causes and Treatments

May 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment

A lot of people suffer from the occasional or seasonal allergies, but some people also suffer from year long allergies. Eye allergies are one of the most common forms of allergies that many people experience. These allergies may be triggered by external factors, such as seasonal triggers, but some other types of allergies can also be triggered by another form of allergic reaction that the body is undergoing. When people suffer from eye allergies, they may also suffer from under eye allergy, which may cause “lagging” skin, or dark and sagging skin that is noticeable under the eyes.

Overview of Under Eye Allergies

Eye bags, or the dark skin under the eyes may be caused by a lot of factors, and lack of sleep is the number one cause. Skin diseases like eczema can also lead to bags under the eyes, and stress can also be the root of having eye bags. “Lagging” skin or the dark areas of skin under the eyes can also be attributed to another allergy that can cause under eye allergy. This condition is also known as “allergic shiner” when this type of medical condition is a result of another type of allergy. Allergic shiners can therefore be avoided by avoiding allergens, which are allergy-causing substances as well as treatment.

Identification of Allergens that Cause Eye Allergies

Darkness of the skin area around the eyes can also be attributed to hereditary factors, so a visit to your physician will allow you to understand more about the causes of under eye allergy. Potential causes include eczema, and other irregularities. Your physician will be able to rule out any of these causes, and if he finds out that allergy is the main cause of the bags under your eyes, then he will help you identify the allergens, or the things that may trigger this type of allergy in your eyes. In successfully identifying these allergens, the will be able to determine the right treatment for you.

Avoidance Measures from Eye Allergies

After successfully identifying what type of allergens trigger your under eye allergy will allow you to determine where, how and when you are exposed to these allergies. In the successful identification of these foreign bodies, you will now be able to work out avoidance measures that can help you avoid making contact with these allergens. In some cases, allergens that cause your allergic shiner to appear can be found in some foods, so a little change of your food intake will help you avoid getting an allergic reaction and help you avoid sporting your allergic shiners.

Some other allergens can be present in household cleaning solutions, so a person who suffers under eye allergy would need to refrain from using these types of solution that can trigger their eye allergies. Substituting it for another brand that doesn’t contain the allergen will allow her to clean her house without any worry of getting an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions of the eyes can also be due to dust mites, pollen, dust and smoke, so regularly cleaning your home as well as your workplace will definitely help you avoid getting allergic shiners caused by your eye allergies.

Medication and Allergy Shots for Eye Allergies

A prescribed medication from your doctor or physician will help your under eye allergy to subside. Since puffy eye allergies can be caused by other types of allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis, some doctors prescribe medications such as steroid sprays, nasal congestion sprays, antihistamines and decongestants to their patients who suffer allergic rhinitis to also help relieve allergic shiners. There are a lot of over the counter medicines as well that can help alleviate the pain and the puffiness of your eyes.

Sufferers of allergic shiners also have the option to receive and get allergy shots against under eye allergy. Allergy shots are small doses of allergen injections that help builds the resistance of the person who have allergic reactions to some allergens. A maximum dose is set for the person to receive the allergy shots that contain very small amounts of allergens, and the shots are then given to the person in a weekly basis of one or more shots. After reaching the maximum dosage point of the shots, the patient is then given maintenance injections until they reach the point that there is noticeable change.

Eye Allergies and Vitamin Deficiencies

If a doctor further studies and investigates the case of under eye allergy in his patients, he will be able to discover that these types of allergies in the eyes can also be caused by deficiencies of certain vitamins on his patient. Vitamin deficiencies are most commonly deficiencies of vitamins E, B6 and B12, vitamin k, and the absence or lack of folic acid, or niacin in the body. Lack of these vitamins can cause allergic reactions, and can also be responsible for other types of allergies. The intake of multi-vitamins to help gain the right amount of these vitamins will truly help a person suffering from allergies.

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Swollen Eye Allergy – Eye Inflammation and Its Remedies

May 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

When viruses or bacteria come into contact with the eyes, viral infection or bacterial eye infection may occur, causing inflammation to the eye. Bacteria and viruses are not the only factors that trigger swollen eye allergy, but there are other allergy-causing factors, called allergens that can cause eye inflammation. These allergens include other types of allergies, trauma, as well as environmental irritants. Eye allergies can also be hereditary, and may sometimes occur as a response to other allergies that a person is experiencing.

Symptoms of Eye Allergies

If you are having a runny nose, itchy mouth, throat, and nose, sinus congestion that leads to a throbbing headache, repeated sneezing and continuous coughing as well as swollen and itchy red eyes, then you are experiencing the symptoms of allergies. Swollen eye allergy can be caused by other types of allergies of the eyes, or other types of allergic reactions to allergens of the body. When the allergies of the eyes are triggered by these allergens that the body responds to, tear and mucus production may be excessive in people who are sensitive and allergic.

Eye Inflammation and Its Other Symptoms

Allergic conjunctivitis can be classified into two: seasonal allergic conjunctivitis and perennial allergic conjunctivitis. SAC, or the seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is the most common type of allergies that are occurring in the eyes. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis are the most common form of allergies in the eyes since these eye allergies are triggered by seasonal factors such. The other form of allergic conjunctivitis which is the PAC or perennial allergic conjunctivitis is also common, because these types of allergies are triggered by allergens such as dust mites, pet fur, mold and feathers.

Inflammation of the Eyes and Its Causes

There are a lot of factors that can cause the inflammation of the eyes, or more commonly known as swollen eye allergy. These types of allergies of the eyes are diagnosed if there is visible swelling of the eyes, redness of the eyes, burning sensation that come with pain. These happen when there is an increase in the flow of blood to the affected area of the eyes. One of the most common factors that trigger eye allergy is another type of allergy. When there is an allergic reaction of the body on a foreign substance, it is usually associated with eye irritation, therefore leading to eye inflammation.

Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common types of eye allergies that can also cause swollen eye allergy. This type of allergic reaction is caused by ragweed and grass pollen, dust mites, seasonal changes, pet hairs or fur, as well as molds. When a person suffers allergic rhinitis, they often get red and itchy eyes that may well lead to inflammation of the eyes, a type of eye allergy.

Viral and Bacterial infections are also part of the factors that may cause eye inflammation. Conjunctivitis, or red eye allergy, is the most common form of bacterial infection of the eyes. It is treated as one of the most contagious eye diseases, as well as another type of eye condition that is now triggered by a viral infection which is called the viral pink eye. These types of eye infections can lead to swollen eye allergy, and are most commonly caused by improper ways of wearing contact lens, trauma and surgery to the eye, as well as touching of the eyes with dirty hands.

A lot of people use eye drops to soothe their irritated eyes. But overusing these over the counter eye drops can affect the eyes in a serious way, and can lead to allergic reactions of the eyes. One allergic reaction that may occur is the swollen eye allergy, wherein inflammation of the eyes occurs because of the dependency of the eyes on these drops. Foreign substances or allergens such as grit, dust, plant sap, and other foreign materials can be trapped inside the eyes and under the eyelids, which may lead the eyes to get inflamed as well as an unpleasant experience.

How to Avoid or Treat Swollen Eye Allergies

The first thing that you have to know is if the inflammation of your eyes is being caused by external factors or if you are actually experiencing swollen eye allergy due to other allergies that your body is currently suffering. Seasonal allergies or the seasonal allergic conjunctivitis can cause swollen, red and itchy eyes. This is due to seasonal factors such as temperature changes and pollen distribution. Once you know what are the factors causing the inflammation to your eyes, then you can now follow avoidance measures.

Making simple changes to your lifestyle will definitely help you relieve or even avoid getting swollen eye allergy. Reducing your alcohol intake and consumption will help you alleviate some factors that may cause the inflammation to your eyes. Living a more stress-free life will help you reduce swollen eyes, as well as getting the right amount of sleep.

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Red Eye Allergy – Symptoms and Its Treatments

May 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Many people experience allergies from time to time, and some people experience allergies year round. Seasonal allergies happen from time to time. Some of these people who experience allergies have allergies of the eyes. These allergies in the eyes are most commonly because of allergic conjunctivitis. Allergies shouldn’t be taken for granted, and they shouldn’t be left untreated. Allergies may be due to another medical condition which could be more serious like vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), or allergic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC). Red eye allergy is one of the most common eye allergies.

All about the Red Eye Allergies

These types of allergies of the eyes are also called conjunctivitis. When the conjunctivae, which are the membrane, located on the eyelids’ inner part, as well as the membranes which cover the white part of the eyes becomes red and becomes irritated, conjunctivitis, of red eye allergy occurs. When foreign bodies like viruses, bacteria, or other allergy-provoking substances, also called allergens, as well as toxic agents and irritants come into contact with these membranes, the conjunctivae reacts to these allergens, thus conjunctivitis occur. Conjunctivitis in children is most common.

Causes of Eye Allergies

The main cause of allergies in the eyes is viral infection. Watery discharge as opposed to eye matter which may be yellow or green to yellowish-green is associated to the viral pink eye. This type of eye allergy is most commonly associated with cold-like or flu-like symptoms. Swelling of the eyelids may occur, and looking at something with bright lights can also be painful. Red eye allergy, that is associated with viral pink eye, usually do not need an antibiotic, but bringing your child to the doctor can verify that there is no infection of the child’s cornea. Viral pink eye is a very contagious eye condition.

Symptoms of Red Eye Allergies

Eyes that are red, swollen, sore, stinging, and watery are the symptoms of red eye allergy. The most important symptom of this type of eye allergy is the itching though, because if the eyes of the person having this kind of allergy are not itchy, then it is less likely that the person is actually having an allergic attack of the eyes. Usually, both the left and the right eye are affected, but one eye may have more symptoms than the other. SAC or seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is the most common form of red eye allergy, associated with seasonal triggers such as ragweed and grass pollens affecting the eyes.

Other Symptoms Associated with Allergies of the Eyes

People who suffer the seasonal allergic conjunctivitis are already able to note the symptoms of red eye allergy on the onset of spring as well as fall seasons. Along with the symptoms of their eye allergies, the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are also most often noted. Burning sensation in the eyes, itching and watering of the eyes are the most common symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Sometimes in some other cases, people tend to have a higher sensitivity to light especially bright lights, and blurring of the vision may also occur. The eyes then become red, and swelling of the eyelids often occurs.

A gelatinous-like matter may be produced by the eyes when the insides of the eyelids are also affected and become swollen. This is a watery matter that is called chemosis. PAC, or perennial allergic conjunctivitis, which is another type of eye allergy, is also common. PAC is usually a year-round allergy, since allergens that are produced by animals, like feathers, fur, urine and dust mites are the most common triggers of PAC. Though it is said that PAC is a year-long allergy, some people may be able to notice some seasonal symptoms with this type of red eye allergy.

Diagnosis of Allergic Conjunctivitis

With the collation of historical symptoms that are very suggestive of allergies of the eyes, the doctors, physicians, and healthcare professionals examination results that point to conjunctivitis, as well as allergy testing that will show if the allergies of the eyes may be perennial or seasonal allergies, the eye allergy called Allergic Conjunctivitis is therefore diagnosed. When a person gives a response to the medications that were given by the doctors, the diagnosis can be ultimately reached, to know if the person is truly experiencing allergies of the eyes.

Treatment of Eye Allergies

As with all type of allergies, a red eye allergy can be avoided through avoidance measures. In avoiding places that may have a lot of allergens that can trigger an allergic reaction, then symptoms of eye allergies may be avoided. If these avoidance measures will not be able to prevent the symptoms associated with eye allergy to occur, using a cold compress on the eyes provide beneficial results to some people. A lot of people use oral anti-histamines to help them get through their allergies, and washing the eyes with eye drops or tear substitutes are also helpful.

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Puffy Eye Allergy – How People Get It and How to Treat It

May 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

There are a lot of ways on how an allergic reaction of the body can be triggered. There a wide variety of allergens that can cause a person to suffer an allergy attack. These factors include allergy-causing components, which are more commonly known as allergens. Eye allergies are one of the most common types of allergies that many people around the world suffer. Allergies can be passed down from a parent to child, but there are also a lot of other ways on how to trigger an allergic reaction of the eyes in some people. One of the most common forms of eye allergies is the puffy eye allergy.

Overview of Eye Allergies

When the body comes into contact with a substance that the immune system perceives to be harmful, an allergic reaction happens. Puffy eye allergy can be one of these reactions. These substances may not really be harmful, but because of the overreaction of the immune system, they can be harmful to a person who is allergic to that allergen. Like dust, for example. A lot of people can get through their daily lives without being bothered by exposure to dust or dirt. But some people, especially those who suffer allergic rhinitis, when exposed to allergens like dust, will be sneezing repeatedly.

Causes of Eye Allergies

Puffy eye allergy can be a result of an allergic reaction of the eyes due to a lot of allergens. These allergens can be the dust, grit and dirt that come into contact with your eyes, mouth, throat and nose. But this type of allergy can also be caused by other types of allergies, such as allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, as well as perennial allergic conjunctivitis. Puffiness of the skin around the eyes can also be caused by fluid retention, hormonal imbalance or hormonal changes, and stress. Some people can also get this type of allergy through the food they eat, their liquid and medicine intake.

Effects of the Allergy

When a person suffering from puffy eye allergy comes into contact with any of these allergens, the immune system of the body of that person will go into overdrive, and will cause more amount of blood to flow through the eyes, which will then cause it to swell. The production of the tears through the eyes can cause the eyes to be strained, thus causing puffiness around the eyes. Sleeping can also cause the inflammation or the swelling of the skin around the eyes, but all in all, the allergens that cause this type of eye allergy causes the swelling thus, leading to puffy eyes.

Symptoms of Allergies that Can Cause Puffy Eyes

Allergic rhinitis, which is also one of the most common types of allergies that people can have, is one of the major factors that can trigger a puffy eye allergy in a person. When a person suffers from allergic rhinitis, she suffers symptoms like repeated sneezing and coughing. With continuous sneezing, a runny nose can occur, and a runny nose leads to itchy and red eyes. When the eyes become very itchy, there is a tendency of inflammation and swelling of the eyes, thus triggering the eye allergy that causes puffy eyes.

Another type of allergy that occurs with the eyes is the allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis happens when the membranes of the eyes which are the white part, becomes red and irritated due to allergens. Allergic conjunctivitis has two very common types, the seasonal allergic conjunctivitis and the perennial allergic conjunctivitis. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis can be triggered by seasonal allergens like ragweed and grass pollen. Perennial allergic conjunctivitis can be triggered by allergens like animal hair, pet urine and beddings, feathers, mold, dust and dirt.

When a person suffers from the allergic conjunctivitis, an eye condition that causes irritation and redness of the eyes, inflammation and swelling can also occur, which can trigger the puffy eye allergy. Allergic conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, since these are eye conditions caused by viral infections or bacterial eye infections. To ensure that you are not suffering from these eye diseases, it is better to have your eyes checked by your doctor to eliminate any worries about having these types of eye infections.

Treatment for Eye Allergies

Since puffy eye allergy can be caused by allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis, which are mostly triggered by dust and dirt, then following avoidance strategies can be the best for you to avoid suffering from your allergies. Avoid going to places that can expose you to a lot of dirt and dust, and regularly cleaning your house will do you a lot of good to. Puffiness of the eyes can also be caused by lack or oversleep, so make sure that you get just the right amount of regular and quality sleep. Lowering your alcohol content to make sure you are hydrated will go a long way to help you avoid having puffy eyes.

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Itchy Eye Allergy – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

May 17, 2011 By Leave a Comment

A lot of people experience allergies be it one in a while, from time to time, or for the whole duration of the year. Allergies are caused by triggers or factors that come into contact with our body that the immune system thinks is armful to the body. These allergy-causing triggers or factors are called allergens, and allergens can be found almost everywhere, in the air we breathe, in the food we eat, in the liquids we drink, even in the house where we live in. When the immune system warns the body of such factors, allergies will act up, and one of the most common types of allergies in the eyes is the itchy eye allergy.

Symptoms of Allergies That Can Lead to Itchy Eyes

Itchiness of the eyes is a type of allergy in the eyes that can be caused by a lot of factors, and another type of allergy is one of those factors. Itchiness of the eyes can be caused by some other allergies like allergic rhinitis, and even eye allergies such as allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is also associated with red eye allergy, wherein the membranes that lines and covers the part of the eye which is white becomes irritated and becomes color red. When this happens, the eyes also become itchy, thus itchy eye allergy can also be associated to allergic conjunctivitis.

Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms include the reddening of the white part of the eyes, watering of the eyes that lead it to produce a discharge which may be yellow to yellowish-green in color, stinging and sore eyes, and a burning sensation especially felt when the eyes are exposed to bright lights. These symptoms of this type of allergies of the eyes are also commonly associated to the symptoms that come with flu or colds. The eyelids may become swollen, and looking at something which is brightly lighted is painful. Itchy eye allergy can have symptoms that are similar to these other types of eye allergies.

Causes of Eye Allergies that can Cause Itchiness

One of the main causes of eye allergies is viral infection as well as bacterial eye infection. When the eyes come into contact with a virus, viral pink eye may occur. This type of viral eye infection makes the eyes produce the yellow-green matter in color. One of the symptoms of viral eye infection as well as bacterial eye infection is the irritation of the eyes, making it very itchy. When the eyes are diagnosed with viral infection or bacterial eye infection, itchy eye allergy can also occur because of the symptoms that will appear when a person is experiencing this type of allergies in the eyes.

Itchy eye allergy can also be caused by seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies are allergies that are caused by seasonal factors that trigger the allergic reaction in the body. These factors include temperature change that comes with seasonal changes, and pollen from mown grass lawns as well as ragweed pollen. The other type of allergy that is a year long kind of allergy is the perennial allergies, which can cause perennial allergic conjunctivitis. The allergens can be found usually at homes, which include pet hair and matter, feathers, dust and dust mites.

Allergic rhinitis can also cause a person to suffer itchy eye allergy. Allergic rhinitis can be due to seasonal allergies or it can also affect a person year round. Allergic rhinitis can be triggered through the same allergens that can cause seasonal allergies as well as perennial allergies. These allergens can be pollen from grass and ragweed, flowers, temperature changes, dust, dust mites, animal fur, animal bedding, animal urine, as well as feathers and mold.

How a Person is Diagnosed with Eye Allergies

With the wide collection of studies that involve the symptoms associated with eye allergies of doctors, physicians and allergists that encountered, a person who thinks she is suffering from itchy eye allergy can have it checked by her doctor. There are now a lot of ways on how to diagnose correctly what kind of allergy a person has, and what are the factors that may trigger the allergic reactions in the body. There is now a process called allergy testing, which a doctor can use to test and show if the allergies of the eyes of the person being tested is due to seasonal allergies or due to perennial allergens.

Treatment and Avoiding Eye Allergies

As with all types of allergies, a person who suffers from itchy eye allergies or any other type of eye allergies can avoid experiencing it again by following avoidance measures. Avoidance measures include avoiding the place where there are a lot of known allergens that may trigger the allergies of the person to act up. It is also known to a lot of people who experience this type of allergy that a bit of cold compress will surely give relief to those whose eyes are allergy-affected.

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Eye Allergy Treatment – Natural, Medication, and Prevention

May 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Eye Allergy Overview

Allergies of the eyes are caused by irritants called allergens. Most eye allergy treatment combat allergens. These substances trigger allergic reactions of the eyes, although it is only the conjunctiva which is affected by allergies. This is the white colored part of the eyes which is responsible for the moistening of the eye balls and eye lids. Eye allergies are also called allergic conjunctivitis.

In a similar way, only the mucosa of the nose gets affected by allergy. Both the conjunctiva and the mucosa are very sensitive parts of their respective organs. Allergies of the eyes and the nose are often triggered by the same substances. Treatments for each vary though. Eye allergy treatment medications are different from those recommended for allergic reactions present in the sinuses.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms present with eye allergies include itching, irritation, swelling, redness, watery eyes which may include discharges, blurry vision, a burning sensation within the eyes, and milky conjunctiva or the disappearance of membranes normally seen in the white part of the eye.

Since eye allergies are related to sinus allergies, other allergic reactions seen in cases of eye allergies resemble those in sinus allergies. These include sneezing, a runny or itchy nose and mouth or throat, as well as sinus related headaches.

Causes

Allergens are often present in the air. Airborne allergens cause allergies when they come in contact with the eyes. Some of which include dust, mites, molds and mildew, pollen from plants and flowers transported by insects such as bees and butterflies, and pet dander. Dander may be similar to dandruff removed from human hair. Dander from animals may consist of dried or dead skin, hair, and other materials from animal skin.

Other allergens may also be foods, insect stings, certain chemicals found in cosmetics and drug products.

Treatment

The most common eye allergy treatment used is eye drops. There are different varieties of which you can use for most types of eye allergies. Some eye drops include artificial tears, antihistamine, vasoconstrictor, and steroid types.

Artificial tears moisten the eyes and aid in the flushing of foreign objects. Antihistamine eye drops counterattack the effects of histamine. The presence of histamine in allergens causes some of the allergic reactions such as itchiness.

Vasoconstrictor eye allergy treatment relieves redness by combating constricted blood vessels. Vasoconstrictors are also referred to as decongestants. These are good for temporary relief only.

Steroid eye drops are used on a prescription basis only. These are often applied for a short period and are very effective in treating severe eye allergies.

Eye drops in steroidal form such as corticosteroid eye drops are reported to have possible side effects though. Certain eye diseases and illnesses may be caused by the use of steroid eye drops especially when at a prolonged period. One side effect is an increased pressure to the inner eye which may cause damage to optic nerves and can also lead to glaucoma. Another side effect causes cloudiness to the lens. This may contribute to occurrence of cataracts.

Natural eye allergy treatment may also be utilized. There are home remedies which can be concocted for eye allergies. Herbal medications may also be purchased through specialty stores.

Medications

Eye allergy treatment in certain medicines prescribed contains one or more components of the following: antihistamines, anti-inflammatory substances, mast cell stabilizers, and steroids. Unlike eye drops, these are available in pills, tables, and capsules or may also be applied in topical forms.

Antihistamines; as already mentioned fight against the effects caused by histamines which are present in most allergens. When an antihistamine eye drop is used, it washes away the impurities before they start affecting the conjunctiva. These are effective in the relief of itchiness but may not do much with swelling. There are also minor side effects attached with these. It includes a stinging sensation in the eyes, drowsiness, and headaches.

Anti-inflammatory substances on the other hand such as ketorolac also battle symptoms of eye allergy reactions. An example of mast cell stabilizers includes cromolyn sodium. These agents prevent histamine and are more effective when taken for prevention purposes rather than for treatment.

Mast cell stabilizers counter attack inflammation in the eye’s mast cells. These can control the itching and burning felt within the eyes. These are the safest over the counter medicine eye allergy treatment. It is safe to use even by children and show no known side effects. The only problem is that they are used for an extended period of time and are to be applied numerous times on a daily basis.

Steroids, as explained are prescribed for severe allergic reactions only.

Prevention

Aside from eye drops and prescribed medications, the most effective eye allergy treatment is prevention. The old adage “prevention is better than cure” is overly used but its truth applies. You must stay away from possible sources of allergies to prevent allergic reactions.

Some practical tips which you can apply include cleaning of areas and items within your home that are sources of potential allergens like pillow cases and air conditioner filters. To be rid of pet dander, dust and clean your house every day. This includes bathing a pet when possible.

Outside the house, wear sunglasses to minimize contact of allergens to the eyes. When on the road, lower down the windows to lessen the possibility of allergens entering your vehicle. Taking a shower prior to bed may also help as the hair catches potential allergens all throughout the day.

Immunotherapy is another method for prevention. In this method, a patient is subjected to an allergen until he or she learns to battle it naturally. It is similar to hypnosis done against a certain fear. Being exposed to what triggers the fear or the allergy, will help the person overcome it in time.

Shots are not usually used for eye allergy treatment but are very potent in the prevention of allergic reactions. It is recommended based on a physician’s assessment of your needs. Like steroids, these are only utilized for worst cases of eye allergies. Allergy shots have effects which may last for months or even years.

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Understanding Eye Allergy Symptoms, Eye Allergy in One Eye and Severe Eye Allergy

May 13, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Truly, the eye has been one of the most important parts of the body that guides every human functioning from learning and discovering the wonders of creation. However, at some extent like any other part of the body it can be subjected to various conditions that is not helpful in its daily functioning and processes. To understand more of these eye conditions, found here, some of eye allergy info you need to know about eye allergy symptoms, eye allergy in one eye, and severe eye allergy.

Anatomy of the Outer Eye

The eyes have conjunctiva, this is a part of the eye that covers the eyeball’s surface and the eyelid’s inner fold. The function of conjunctiva acts as a structure that creates a barrier between the inner parts of the eye and the environment. In relation to this, the area that is usually exposed to the environment is also the common eye problem. The mast cells are the ones that function in the release of histamine, which is a good indicator for some eye allergy symptoms that usually involves eye allergy in one eye and severe eye allergy.

Aside from conjunctiva, there is a gland which is responsible for the production of tear located on the upper and lower regions of the eye. This gland is called lacrimal gland or tear gland. Apart from the production of watery components of tears, it is also responsible in washing away the cause of eye irritation and keeps the eye moist. Moreover, the tears have necessary parts like immunoglobulin, some enzymes and lymphocytes. These components are necessary in defense of the immune system. The eye irritation can affect other regions, especially the parts exposed to allergens that can cause eye allergy symptoms that are common in eye allergy in one eye and severe eye allergy.

Signs and Symptoms

Due to the direct exposure of the outer parts of the eye to various allergens present in the environment, this makes the eye vulnerable to some causes of eye allergy due to the lack of filtering system. Most people regard eye allergy symptoms as something that doesn’t need medical attention, but this misconception can be dangerous. Swollen, red and itchy eyes, which are accompanied with runny nose, coughing and sneezing; Even the nose, mouth and throat are also itchy and causes headache due to the congestion of the sinus, you may be experiencing the common eye allergy symptoms or yet possible an eye allergy in one eye if not severe eye allergy.

Apart from these more obvious symptoms, fatigued and lack of sleep are other symptoms associated to eye allergy. Upon notice of the tearing, stinging, burning sensations and watery eyes, you must seek proper medical attention before the situation can lead out of hand. The mentioned symptoms are partly less severe eye allergy and may happen once in a while upon exposure to harmful allergens. Severe eye conditions are distressing and may cause you to visit an ophthalmologist more often when you disregard simple cases of eye allergy.

Aside from these, certain eye allergy symptoms are also particularly related to allergic rhinitis or hay fever and other infection like dermatitis or atopic eczema. These cases of eye allergy symptoms are more related to allergy in one eye rather than severe eye allergy. Upon exposure to various eye irritants like cosmetics and medications, it leads to pink eye infection. However if the outer eye comes in contact with a particular airborne allergen, the eye may suffer from serious allergy.

Eye Allergy Conditions

According to studies, there are about 10% from the population of United States that experience allergic eye disease. And that, some people are more predisposed to allergic eye disease because of the person’s history on allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. Here are some of the allergic eye conditions with their overview and some eye allergy symptoms, allergy in one eye and severe eye allergy; each condition will be further discussed.

One of the most common allergic eye conditions is the allergic conjunctivitis which is also known as allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. This eye disorder is often seasonal and closely linked to hay fever, further, the symptoms include watery discharge, eyelid swelling and redness, itching, tearing and burning. More severe symptoms include the release of histamine. It is not advised to rub the eye especially when the symptoms are unbearable as it will worsen the eye condition.

Apart from allergic conjunctivitis, conjunctivitis with atopic dermatitis is another allergic eye condition. Other terms of this eye disorder is atopic keratoconjunctivitis; this is a severe eye allergy that involves the inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. Some of the eye allergy symptoms, allergy in one eye and severe eye allergy are characterized with the extremely itchy eyes especially on the areas of the eyelids that appear red. Moreover, there is also a heavy discharge which can occur, the eyelid often manifests the presence of scales and crusts. In more severe cases, symptoms like sensitivity to light and eyelid thickening is noticeable.

Another severe eye allergy is the vernal keratoconjunctivitis, this condition happens rarely, and it is also a seasonal allergy during the late springs, males are also more susceptible to this eye allergy. This condition is characterized by intense itchiness, sensitivity to light, the eyelids are swelling and droopy, the eyes also release stringy discharge, while the upper eyelids are seen as cobblestoned. With a closer examination, eye allergy symptoms such as in cases of allergy in one eye and severe eye allergy reveal that there is a great amount of mast cells and the accumulation of eosinophils is bulking up while producing Trantas dots. There are other allergic eye conditions that may occur like GPC and eyelid allergy. These are also cases that often lead to cataract and other forms of eye disorders without proper management. The worst case, blindness can occur in some rare conditions.

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Knowing Eye Allergy Medication and The Best Eye Allergy Medicine

May 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment

There are many eye allergy conditions that have an immediate eye allergy medication however, even if it is an immediate relief, it is better to get the best eye allergy medicine. There are specific medicines and treatment for a certain eye condition depending on the level of severity and other factors such as eye drop allergy.

Simple Eye Allergy Treatment

The presence of symptoms like swollen eyelids, red eyes, eye itchiness, burning sensations of the eye among other eye allergy symptoms can be treated with eye drops, especially the eye condition like conjunctivitis. But the thing is, eye drops are not a good temporary immediate relief for certain individuals because they are allergic to some of the components that are present on it. With this case, the individual may have no other choice but to take in eye allergy medication and must choose the best eye allergy medicine for treatment.

Moreover, the best advice an expert may give is in the avoidance of allergens that can trigger eye problem allergies. If you are experiencing dog allergy symptoms or cat allergy symptoms, it’s better to get rid of them. Moreover, during the seasons when pollens start to appear, staying inside the house is the best remedy especially among people that are hypersensitive. When staying outdoors, the use of eye protective gear to avoid eye problems is important, in addition to this, when driving, it is better to close the windows of the car to lessen the entry of airborne allergens. Further, there are herbal allergy treatments in replacement of the laboratory produced ones.

Right Medication

The widespread availability of eye allergy medication doesn’t imply that the best eye allergy medicine can be bought without proper consideration of your doctor’s advice. Moreover, to help the eye symptoms from the allergy it posses, the use of medicines that have anti-histamines like eye drops treatment, nasal sprays, creams, shots, liquids and pills can be bought over-the-counter while other eye allergy medications requires a doctor’s prescription. Consider the following eye allergy medications for a specific eye problem you may be experiencing now.

The first one is the corticosteroid. This eye medicine aids in the treatment and prevention of eye infection and inflammation in a manner by which allergic reactions are blocked upon administration and intake. There are many forms of this medicine, like in the form of nasal corticosteroid spray, oral corticosteroid like the liquids and pills, inhaled, eye drops and skin cream corticosteroid. Proper consideration for this medicine as an eye allergy medication may not be the best eye allergy medicine since in the long run of using it to cure eye problems; it leads to certain conditions like osteoporosis, cataracts, growth retardation among children, mouth infection and headache and muscle weakness among active users.

The second medication in line with eye allergy treatment is the Antihistamines. Antihistamines are produced from the immune system; it works by properly blocking the histamines that causes allergic reactions. Like corticosteroid, antihistamines have various forms like the liquids ad pills which are mainly used in the alleviation of eye allergy symptoms like watery eyes, hives, swelling and runny nose. Some of the most common antihistamines that can be purchased over-the-counter are Claritin and Benadryl.

Other antihistamines are in the form of nasal allergy sprays like olopatadine, the eye drops medication can be bought over-the-counter but it can increase eye irritation and inflammation. Antihistamine is a good option for eye allergy medication or may even be considered the best eye allergy medicine but there is a limiting factor on this medicine since some of the drug forms must not be taken if you are to drive a vehicle as it may potentially put you into a drowsy level.

Another medication for eye allergy symptoms is the Decongestants. Decongestants are an effective and immediate relief of eye allergies, especially with the temporary relief of congestion on the nasal areas of the sinus. Like Antihistamines and corticosteroids it also has an oral form like the pills and liquids, decongestants have available nasal sprays and eye drops such as Visine eye drops among many others. However this medicine may be an effective eye allergy medication, there are cases that it is not the best eye allergy medicine since it cannot be used by pregnant women, or people with high blood pressure and the older populace.

Other eye allergy symptoms are treated and relieved using the product but it may later cause anxiety, dizziness, headaches, irritability, insomnia, irregular and fast heart rate, tremors, eye redness. In certain cases of drug overuse, it may also cause acute glaucoma. It is better to discuss the use of this drug to your doctor so the further complications may be avoided.

Other Eye Allergy Medication

In the case of having a severe eye allergy like the presence of Giant papillary conjunctivitis or GPC, a specific eye allergy medication is recommended for the treatment but it is not accordingly the best eye allergy medicine. GPC which is characterized by the presence of giant papillae in the areas of conjunctiva are treated using Cromolyn. In this case, the eye allergy symptoms may appear for several months, wearing of contact lenses should not be an option during treatment as eye itchiness may occur.

Other medications such as the use of eye treatment like Mast cell stabilizer eye drops are good options since no side effects are known to exist. The other medication available for eye allergy treatment is the Monteluskat; this drug needs a doctor’s prescription to purchase it. However, the FDA warned consumers against the product since it can cause various psychological symptoms like suicidal ideation, depression and aggression among many others. This are some of the eye allergy medication in the market today but known side effects exists as for them not to be considered as the best eye allergy medicine known.

Furthermore, there are home remedies for allergies that are readily available in the eye allergy treatment. In fact the utilization of herbal allergy remedy can be done at home without having to worry about the side effects of the eye allergy medications that are seen in the market. Here are some of the eye allergy remedies that can be done and utilized at home.

Drink a cup or two of green tea every day, green tea has antihistamine contents. Apple cider vinegars and honey are also great home remedies for eye allergy treatment. Combine these home products to some of the food and the effect of it is the same as any eye allergy medication, the relief may take longer to occur but you don’t have to worry for the side effects as it can be regarded as one of the best eye allergy medicine in its alternative form.

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Understanding Eye Allergy Causes

May 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

To better understand the various eye allergy causes, the consideration of eye allergy contributory factor is an important thing to introduce like allergens. More often you feel symptoms like having red eyes, itchy eyes, swollen eyelids, watery discharge and the burning sensation is almost unbearable. However, the presence of these symptoms may happen from time to time, it is always a puzzle as to the causes of eye allergy. Since the outer eye is directly subjected to the outer environment, it is more susceptible for this part of the eye to be exposed with different allergens that are present in the surroundings.

Allergens and its Sources

Allergens are the initiating factor in eye allergy, allergens are found everywhere. Most often, eye allergy causes are triggered by allergens that are air borne in nature which can originate from grasses, trees, pollens of flowers, weeds and a whole lot more. There are individuals that are sensitive to these airborne allergens upon exposure, causing these individuals to suffer from different eye allergy conditions like conjunctivitis. Other allergens include pet hairs and feathers (cat and dog allergy), shed dander, dust mites, dirt, mold, plant microbes are the common allergen sources that are basically found indoor.

Further, some of the most common indoor allergens involve allergic inflammation of the eyes like cigarette or cigar smoke, fumes or exhausts from cars and other vehicles that uses petrol, gasoline and other fuels and perfumes fragrance. Moreover, these are allergens that can either irritate the eye or may worsen or aggravate the condition of the eye. Moreover, eye allergy causes are also dependent on seasons where certain plant pollens are released in the air.

In addition to these, certain food, cosmetics, contact lenses, bee stings and even antibiotic eye treatment causes eye allergy. According to studies, eye allergies is also hereditary, it implies that a certain individual is more susceptible to eye allergies when the condition runs in the familial line. Moreover, the occurrence of allergic reactions can also be the effect of overreaction to certain harmful substances among extremely sensitive individuals. The average individual is harmless to dust mites, but for individuals who are very sensitive to allergens may cause them to produce tears and mucus in the eyes as a reaction.

Self-inventory Quiz

If you feel that you are exposed to the eye allergy causes, answer these questions for further reference with a yes or a no with each statement. First, do your eyes particularly itch during the seasons where pollens are released? Second, do you have allergic reactions that run in the family? Third, is there a dependency of antihistamines and decongestants to regulate coughing, nasal congestion and sneezing? Fourth, have you been diagnosed with conjunctivitis or the so called pink eye? Fifth, are you allergic to cats and other animals associated with it? Sixth, do your eyes turn red and itchy and do you often sneeze outdoors?

Upon answering all these questions and your answers are mostly yes, then you are most probably suffer or will likely suffer eye allergies than any other individual who are also exposed to various eye allergy causes. It is advised that you visit your eye expert doctor when the symptoms aggravate on the occurrence of these eye allergies such as seasonal or perennial conjunctivitis for an immediate action of treatment.

Other Causes of Eye Allergy

Aside from the outdoor and indoor factors and causes of eye allergy, there are also causes that lie on the individual’s usage of contact lenses that are not comfortable upon wearing. Contact lenses often irritate the eye especially in cases of unsanitary handling and management of it. However, even if the cause of wearing a contact lense is for protection of the eye, still, there are allergens that can get into it and may further develop as one of the eye allergy causes on the user’s eye discomfort.

You may be asking, how can such a thing happen? The mechanism is simple; some airborne allergens upon contact with the lenses in your eyes can trigger the production of excessive natural components of the tears which further binds with the contacts causing the uncomfortable sensation in the eye. However, you can put remedy on this dilemma by using contact lenses that are disposable, because of the frequent changing of the lenses; it is less likely for allergens to be deposited in some areas of the eye or the build-up of foreign allergens is less likely to occur.

Other eye allergy causes aside from the ones mentioned is in use of eye cosmetics that are not hypoallergenic. The use of cosmetic products must be regulated or it should be stopped since it may not cause a good effect on the eye or doesn’t benefit the eye at all. There are ingredients in the cosmetics that can also trigger eye allergies. If you do not want to experience the uncomfortable sensations of eye redness, itchiness, burning, tearing and eye watery and heavy discharge, brought by eye allergies better purchase a cosmetic product that will not harm you in any way.

Effects on Eyesight

The eye is considered as one of the most delicate part in the body, this is the reason why proper management and care must be regularly applied to avoid eye conditions that will limit you to function as a normal being. The common eye allergy causes are inevitable too exists; it is already a part of nature’s ecological processes in plant diversity. However, there are also measures and steps from which we are guided to follow for a healthy eye. Simple eye inflammations like conjunctivitis cannot cause blindness or other eye related diseases. It may not cause further damage to the eye, but extra care is needed.

Simple eye inflammations may not threatening, but severe eye allergies can cause eye damage and the worst that can happen is an eye allergy leading to blindness. Some of these eye conditions include eczema or atopic dermatitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis and other forms such as GPC and eyelid allergies are not simple eye disorders which have been triggered by eye allergy causes and factors.

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Gooey Eye Allergy and Other Eye Problems

May 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Gooey eye allergy has many causes that make the affected individual uncomfortable.  Blocked or deformed tear ducts is one.  There are also entropion, bacterial and viral infections, distichiasis and tichiasis.  Any eye problems like glaucoma, uveities and cataracts causes the eyes to discharge fluids in small amount or rather excessively.  Pink eye infection results into gooey eyes.  Pink eyes can be contagious based on the cause of the infection.  Another eye problem that is caused by virus or bacteria is conjunctivitis.  If it is just an allergy, it may not be transferrable at all.  Otherwise, this is a contagious eye malfunction.   Contagious eye conjunctivitis must be dealt with care and caution.

If your eyes are red, itchy and excrete gooey liquid, then you have conjunctivitis.  Conjunctivitis is another kind of reaction that causes eye irritability, not a disease.  Once consulted with a doctor, your ears and nose will be checked too.  This will automatically be done to check whether they are also affected by the virus, bacteria or allergy that are causing your conjunctivitis.  If the cause of your conjunctivitis is virus, eye drops will be ineffective.  Only bacteria caused conjunctivitis will be treated by antibiotic eye drops for kids up to adults.  Antibiotic eye ointments are administered to babies.  It is advisable to use the eye ointment and eye drops frequently during the day.  Parents or other household adults can assist anyone who uses eye drops and ointments.  If your eye problem is caused by gooey allergies, the doctor will have to prescribe you with a different kind of eye medication.

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the sclera membrane covering of the eye.  The sclera is the white colored portion of the eyes.  Once the conjunctiva is inflamed, it will swell with reddish color and uncomfortable feeling. The eyes can easily be irritated by smoke, air pollution, scratches or a simple movable eyelash.  Eye irritation can easily be soothed by applying a cold or warm compress using a sterilized clean face towel.  Better yet, splash eyes with warm water using cotton balls to slightly remove the gooey substance.  Hands mush be washed completely to avoid further infection.  Towels used must be washed immediately so as not to spread the virus or bacteria removed from the infected eyes.  It is advisable to refrain from touching infected eyes except when cleaning it.   Be careful not to touch others or things if your hands are not yet washed after touching the eyes with conjunctivitis to help others not get infected, especially family members and friends.

In the United States, students can only return to school after getting a clearance from their doctor that it is safe to return to school and that their pink eye or conjunctivitis is in stable condition, free from spreading it to other students.

Clean environment and proper hygiene prevent any eye allergies or infections.  If you think you have conjunctivitis symptoms, do not use any eye make-up to stop the inflammation.  Apply the warm water compress every hour or a couple of hours depending on the excretion of gooey liquid and crusts around the eyes and try massaging the eye corner beside the nose.  Again, you must wash your hands thoroughly and apply alcohol in your hands even before touching your face or eye area.    Refer to your doctor for medications needed to stop the spread of the irritation or infection.  Use the prescribed ointment or eye drops before sleeping, to maintain the moisture level of the eyes preventing sand like particles playing within the eyes.  Ointments last longer than eye drops.  That is due to its mineral oils and white petrolatum contents.  One can also use eye moisture chamber while sleeping, intended as moisture shields and stop moisture evaporation.  Gooey eye allergies, Pink eye or conjunctivitis are manageable as long as you follow your doctor’s advice.

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