Eye Allergies

• The eyes are affected when they are exposed to a substance you are sensitive to or allergic to; redness and irritation are apparent. Many allergens are carried through the air, however, in some cases, they can be transferred through contact.
  
  

What Happens

• When an allergic reaction occurs, the eyes may overreact to the allergen, causing an excessive production of tears and mucus. When this overproduction begins to dry, a crust forms. This often occurs while you are sleeping and your eyes are closed and you might find it difficult to open your eyes when you awaken.
  
  

Symptoms

• Allergy symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, sinus congestion that can cause headaches, itchy throat and red, swollen itchy eyes. You could have all of these symptoms or only one or two, but in most cases, the eyes are affected because they tend to be the first to react to the allergens.
  
  

Getting Relief

• Decongestants contain vasoconstrictors which make the eye's blood vessels smaller, clearing up any redness. Antihistamines can help lessen the overproduction of tears. Avoiding allergens, if at all possible, will bring some relief.
  
  

Treatment

• See a doctor to confirm what you are allergic to and avoid what is causing the eye allergy. If your allergies are too numerous to possibly be able to avoid them altogether, take measures to control the allergens. This includes staying indoors with the air conditioner on instead of having windows open during times of high pollen count, wear sunglasses that wrap around your head and drive with the windows closed. If you have pets, keep them off your furniture. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe a medication.