Allergies are immune reactions to harmless foreign substances. Also known as allergic conjunctivitis, allergies occur when substances known as allergens irritate the eyes. When the immune system senses allergens, it produces antibodies that cause the release of chemicals.

This results in an allergic reaction. It can cause itchiness, watery eyes, redness, pain, lid swelling, and swollen eyes. Some people also experience burning, grittiness, and eye fatigue. The symptoms vary in severity among individuals.

Experiencing Eye Allergies

Studies suggest that approximately 20% of people in the U.S. suffer from allergies. The condition occurs when allergens cause the conjunctiva to become inflamed as the mast cells release histamine.

The chemical causes blood vessel dilation as itchy mucous membranes inflame the eyelids. It is necessary to realize that the symptoms of eye allergies can be similar to those of infections or dry eye syndrome. Contact an eye care professional for a proper diagnosis.

Symptoms of Eye Allergies

Eye allergies are relatively common and usually seasonal. However, some people experience allergies all year round due to exposure to smoke, pet dander, dust, and perfume. Symptoms vary with each individual's reaction to the allergens. They include:
 

• Eyelid swelling
   

• Tearing/watery eyes
   

• Eye redness
   

• Swollen eyes
   

• Burning sensation
   

• Itchiness
   

• Grittiness

The sensation of a foreign object, eye stinging, or acute dryness is more likely to be a symptom of dry eye syndrome.

Impact of Allergies on Vision

People who suffer from allergies experience blurriness. Fortunately, this is usually temporary; allergies do not cause long-term vision damage. But if not treated, severe allergies can lead to corneal damage or ulcers, which can threaten eyesight.

The eye doctor can identify the type of allergy by conducting an ocular exam, assessing medical history, and testing the tears. Allergies due to incorrect contact lens use and ocular allergies caused by certain medications can impact vision.

Severe Allergic Reactions

In most cases, eye allergies cause discomfort and can be annoying. In some cases, the condition can be disabling. Some patients experience severe symptoms that affect their vision or make them want to keep their eyes closed.

The symptoms include eye fatigue, watery discharge, or eyelid scaling. The symptoms can affect an individual’s lifestyle or ability to participate in daily activities. Red eyes and puffy eyelids also affect an individual’s appearance. Treatment can help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms.

Eye Allergy Complications 

Short-term allergy reactions usually resolve quickly with the right medication. Long-term allergies can last for weeks. In some cases, allergies can lead to complications that last several months.

Common complications include limbal stem cell deficiency, which can lead to severe pain, irritation, blurry vision, and extreme light sensitivity. Secondary keratoconus can also occur, where the cornea thins and bulges, affecting vision.

Seasonal allergies are the most common, and the effects are temporary. The symptoms subside after removing the allergen or reducing exposure. They do not have much impact on eye health. Chronic allergies can damage retinal blood vessels and cause blurry vision. They can cause long-term vision complications.

For more on the impact of eye allergies on vision, visit Gratitude Vision Optometry at our Baldwin Park, California, office. Call (626) 587-0033 to schedule an appointment today.