Overview
The symptoms can occur alone but usually accompany the sneezing, sniffling or stuffy nose found with nasal allergies.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
Itching
Redness
Burning
Clear, watery discharge
For more information on eye allergy symptoms click here.
Eye Allergy Triggers
Outdoor allergens, such as pollens from grass, trees and weeds
Indoor allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and mold
Irritants, such as cigarette smoke, perfume and diesel exhaust
Eye Allergy Management and Treatment
Avoid triggers by making changes to your home and to your behavior.
Keep windows closed during high pollen periods; use air conditioning in your home and car.
Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to keep pollen out of your eyes.
Use “mite-proof” bedding covers to limit exposure to dust mites, and a dehumidifier to control mold.
Wash your hands after petting any animal.
Control some symptoms with nonprescription medications, sold over the counter:
Artificial tears
Decongestant eyedrops (don’t use eyedrops for “red eye” longer than a week, or they can make things worse)
Oral antihistamines (note that they may dry your eyes and make your symptoms worse)
See an allergist for prescription medications, which may be more effective:
Eyedrops (decongestant, antihistamine, mast cell stabilizer, corticosteroid, NSAID)
Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
Nonsedating oral antihistamines (note that they may dry your eyes and make your symptoms worse)