If you've been dealing with itchy, irritated, and watery eyes lately, you're not alone. Every time you walk outside or sit in front of a fan, your eyes might start to burn, turn red, and feel miserable. It can seem like you can't escape whatever is causing this reaction. Don't worry—an eye doctor near you at Wichita Optometry, P.A. can help.
Identifying the Culprit Behind Your Eye Allergies
The first step is determining what exactly you're allergic to. Seasonal allergies are a common cause of itchy eyes this time of year. Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds often irritates the eyes. However, eye allergies can also be triggered by other irritants such as pet dander, dust mites, mold, smoke, and certain cosmetics or skin care products.
Make an appointment with your optometrist at one of Wichita Optometry, P.A.'s two locations in Wichita, KS, and Mulvane, KS. During your eye exam, your optometrist will inquire about your symptoms and when they occur. This information can help identify the source of your allergies. Any necessary tests to pinpoint the cause can also be performed.
Tips to Soothe Your Allergy Symptoms at Home
Once you know what's triggering your eye allergies, there are several things you can do at home to help soothe your irritated eyes:
- Rinse Your Eyes Frequently: Use cool water or saline eye drops to wash away allergens. This can provide quick relief when your eyes are burning.
- Use Allergy Eye Drops: Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can help stop the allergic reaction, alleviate dry eyes, and relieve itching.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can worsen irritation and inflammation.
- Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: This helps prevent pollen and other allergens from blowing into your eyes.
- Use Air Filters: Install air filters in your home to reduce dust, pet dander, and other triggers.
- Wash Your Hands: Before touching your eyes, make sure to wash your hands to avoid transferring allergens from your fingers to your eyes.
Prescription Treatments Your Optometrist Can Provide
If over-the-counter options aren't providing sufficient relief, visit your optometrist at Wichita Optometry, P.A. They can prescribe stronger anti-allergy eye drops that are more effective at blocking histamines and reducing redness and irritation.
For severe eye allergies, your eye doctor may recommend oral allergy medications or allergy shots. These treatments work to reduce your overall immune system reaction to allergens. With consistent treatment, you should experience significant relief from eye allergy symptoms within a few months. Don't continue to suffer through endless days of red, itchy, and burning eyes.
Contact Wichita Optometry, P.A. in Wichita, KS
Our optometrists at Wichita Optometry, P.A. are here to diagnose the cause of your eye allergies and provide tailored tips and treatments to help you find relief. Call us today so you can see clearly and comfortably again.