Eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, affect millions of people in the United States, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Tearing eyes are commonly accompanied by other allergic symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion and sinus pressure pain. Identifying the cause of the allergic reaction that leads to tearing eyes is the first step to treating and preventing the condition. A doctor should assess the eyes to determine the best treatment and approach.
Definition
Allergic conjunctivitis is considered pink eye caused by severe allergies, according to FamilyDoctor.org. When the thin layer of the eye is compromised by allergens, it becomes irritated, resulting in watery eyes, discolored pink eyes and inflammation around the eyes.
Causes
Tearing eyes caused by allergies is the body's reaction to a particular substance such as pollen, dust or cosmetic products. When the allergen enters the body, the immune system doesn't recognize it as a safe substance and attempts to ward it off by creating antibodies and histamine. These chemicals cause allergy symptoms to appear, such as irritated eyes that lead to consistent tearing. Irritants that can also cause tearing eyes include pollution, smoke, perfume or make-up, according to MedlinePlus, a medical information resource established by the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Prevention
According to the Mayo Clinic, avoiding allergens is the first step to preventing allergic conjunctivitis. The ACAAI states that staying indoors, keeping the windows and doors closed, avoiding rubbing the eyes, minimizing dust exposure, keeping animals at a distance and inhibiting the growth of household molds can help prevent eye tearing from allergies.
Treatment
According to FamilyDoctor.org, over-the-counter drugs are available to treat tearing eyes from allergies. Eye drops can be purchased containing an antihistamine, decongestant, a pain reliever or a mast-cell stabilizer. Read the labels to determine the active ingredients in each eye drop. Oral antihistamines can also be taken to treat eye tearing from allergies, according to FamilyDoctor.org. A doctor can prescribe an eye drop depending on your condition.
Concerns
A doctor should be contacted if someone experiences chronic tearing without explanation, mucus discharge from the eyes, pain in the eyes or tenderness that develops around the eyes or the nose, according to ACAAI. Allergies do not affect a person's sight. If sight is affected, the individual should see a medical professional.
