Food allergies, or reactions to other allergens such as dust or pollen, can result in eye-related symptoms. This eye condition, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, may also cause eyelid swelling and other symptoms. If you have swollen lids that do not resolve within a day or two, contact your doctor for an evaluation. Knowing the early signs of an eye allergy will not only help you identify a problem, but may help you identify symptoms that need immediate attention.
Additional Symptoms
In addition to swollen eyelids, eye allergies may cause the whites of your eyes to appear red, and you may experience itching, eye pain and excessive watering. You could also have yellow or greenish eye discharge. These symptoms may resolve once the allergen is no longer present. If you experience worsening of symptoms or vision changes, contact your doctor.
Compresses
If an allergic reaction causes eyelid swelling, you may find that a simple compress will help relieve your symptoms. Hold a clean washcloth under cool water and wring out the excess water. You can then place the damp cloth on your eyes, but make sure you keep your eyelids closed so the cloth does not scratch the surface of your eyes. After a few minutes you can remove the cloth, but repeat as necessary throughout the day to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Other Treatment
Your doctor may recommend that you use an allergy medication to help control your symptoms. Oral medications will often help relieve minor eye symptoms, as well as other symptoms such as congestion and sneezing. An allergy eye drop may provide quick relief for your symptoms. Both types of medications may also help prevent allergy symptoms if you know you will come in contact with an allergen.
If your symptoms do not respond to allergy medications, your doctor may recommend steroid eye drops to help reduce lid inflammation and control symptoms.
Considerations
You should not use allergy medications, including over-the-counter medications, without first talking with your doctor. Certain products may interfere with other health conditions or medications you take. The symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis can also mimic other eye conditions, such as eye infections, that require an antibiotic. Your doctor can help you determine if your symptoms are caused by an infection or an allergy.
