Eye allergies are a common nuisance and can often be confused with conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 50 percent of conjunctivitis patients who see a doctor with eye symptoms actually have allergies. Eye allergy symptoms are triggered by allergens such as dust, mold, pet dander and pollen. Such allergens are not always avoidable and require medical treatment. Although allergies themselves may not be curable, eye symptoms associated with allergies are treatable and can be prevented with medicine.
Itchiness
Allergies can cause itchiness due to the histamine your body produces to help combat a particular allergen. Allergies can also cause your eyes to itch when you come in contact with an allergen. For example, an allergy to pollen can cause eye itchiness just from walking outside on a spring day when pollen levels may be high. Eye itchiness is particularly bothersome in women who wear eye makeup.
Redness
Your eyes may respond to allergens by turning red. Redness associated with eye allergies is the most common cause of a misdiagnosis of conjunctivitis. Pink eye is often bright red in appearance. Eye allergies cause a pinkish to light-red color that is not as obvious. Eye redness disappears from using eye drops. However, All About Vision reports that untreated eye allergies can cause conjunctivitis over time.
Swelling
Swelling around the eyes can result from irritation associated with allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergens can cause eye puffiness in approximately 40 percent of eye allergy patients. Puffiness is prevalent underneath the eyes but can also be noticeable on your eyelids. The foundation says that allergy sufferers who wear contact lenses are the most likely to incur eye swelling.
Discharge
Eye allergies can cause your eyes to water, due to dryness. Your eyes can also create a discharge in response to the dryness. Unlike the yellow-tinged discharge often associated with pink eye, eye allergies can cause a clear or white discharge. When you wake up, this type of discharge can dry out and cake at the corners of your eyes.
Other Symptoms
Look for other allergy symptoms such as sinus congestion, headaches, sneezing, runny nose, throat irritation and coughing. Such symptoms that accompany eye problems likely indicate allergies. Occasional eye allergy problems are treated with over-the-counter eye drops. If your symptoms do not improve or are persistent, your allergist will likely suggest prescription eye drops. Oral medications for other allergy symptoms may also help eye allergies, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
