How will my allergies affect my eyes?

Ocular allergies are very common and one of the most frustrating conditions patients experience related to the eyes. Ocular allergies rarely pose a health risk to the eyes. They usually are classically associated with a mild to severe "itchy" symptom indicative of allergies.

A patient should view allergy treatment as an attempt to contain the allergy rather than to cure it. All of the treatment recommendations we suggest are to make the patient feel better and to keep the allergy response "in-check".

At Premier Vision we record a five-step approach to allergy treatment:

1. Be aware of the allergens that tend to cause symptoms and try to avoid them.
2. Cool compresses—A cool washcloth held over closed eyelids goes a long way toward relieving the itch and other associated symptoms of ocular allergies.
3. Over-the-counter antihistamines, both in eye drops and oral forms.
4. Prescription eye drops only if the first three steps seem to be ineffective.
5. Consultation with an allergist to create a recommended systemic plan for treatment of your allergies.

Next Question or Return to Question List