What are eye allergies?
Eye allergies are very common and are often due to the same irritants that cause seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergy sufferers usually have sneezing, congestion and a runny nose. People with eye allergies will have red, itchy, watery eyes in addition to those symptoms.
People with eye allergies may also experience swollen eyelids. In some cases, eye allergies also can play a role in conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other eye infections.
If you think you have eye allergies, here are a few things you should know — including helpful tips on how to get relief from your red, itchy, watery eyes.
What causes eye allergies?
Common allergens include pollen, animal dander and mold.
Allergens are normally harmless substances that cause problems for individuals who are predisposed to allergic reactions. The most common airborne allergens that cause eye allergies are pollen, mold, dust and pet dander.
Eye allergies also can be caused by reactions to certain cosmetics or eye drops, including artificial tears used for treating dry eyes that contain preservatives.
Food allergies and allergic reactions to bee stings or other insect bites typically do not affect the eyes as severely as airborne allergens do.
