Allergies affect about 10 to 20 percent of people, according to the University of Illinois at Chicago, and itchy eyes are a common symptom. Most eye allergies stem from environmental causes, and eye itchiness can be but one symptom among many or appear as the sole reaction to the allergen. Eye allergies are typically mild and not life-threatening, although in some cases they can impact your vision if left untreated.
Causes of Eye Allergies
All allergies, including eye allergies, are ultimately caused by an overreaction of the immune system. When the tissues of the eye encounter an allergen, the body produces histamines and other compounds that cause itchiness and redness of the eyes and skin. Some people experience an allergic reaction to pollen or mold during certain times of the year, particularly in the spring and summer. Others may react to smoke, animal dander, house dust or other airborne particles that can be present any time of year. People also develop eye allergies upon contact with certain chemicals, such as those found in sunscreen or insect repellent. Others may develop eye allergies to certain medications or as the result of contact lens use.
Itchy Eyes and Other Symptoms
Itching is only one symptom of an allergic reaction affecting the eyes. Many people with eye allergies also experience redness, swelling and puffiness around the eyes. The eyes may leak tears and mucous. You may notice a feeling of grittiness or the presence of something on the surface of the eye. Eye symptoms also frequently occur in conjunction with other allergic symptoms, such as a runny nose, congestion, coughing, sinus headaches, hives, skin itchiness or sneezing. Your doctor will consider all of your other symptoms, or the lack of other symptoms, when trying to determine the precise cause of your itchy allergy eyes.
Treatments for Eye Allergies
A cool compress placed on the closed eyes can ease itchiness, redness and swelling from eye allergies. Artificial tears can soothe irritation, while medicated eye drops also reduce symptoms. Over-the-counter antihistamines come in both eye drop and oral form. These dampen the immune response and can provide relief for up to 12 hours at a time. If the allergy is caused by a specific compound, avoidance can sometimes help prevent the problem. Allergies are not curable, but treatment can often reduce symptoms to tolerable levels.
Considerations
Itchy eye allergies are typically a short-term problem and usually go away eventually even without symptoms. If your itchy eyes do not respond to home treatment or if the symptoms become severe, contact your doctor to rule out other possible eye problems. Your doctor may suggest an allergy test to determine the specific allergen and refer you to an allergist.
