Ocular allergies are brought about by pollen, pet dander, and other elements. In most cases, eye allergies co-exist with other allergic conditions such as nasal and skin allergies. You can develop the condition when the allergens enter your eyes when you simply walk to the source of the allergen. You will also develop the condition when the allergens enter your eyes when you rub or touch around your eyes with your hands.

Eye allergy symptoms

The condition has a number of symptoms that include: sore throat, watery eyes, congestion, runny nose, and burning sensations. Two areas of the eyes are involved with the allergies: the conjunctiva and tear gland. The conjunctiva covers the white part of the eyes and also the insides of the eyelids. The tissue protects the eyes from microbes, invading particles and other debris.  When the conjunctiva gets into contact with the allergen, it swells, starts itching and you have a burning sensation.

The tear gland produces tears that not only waters the eyes, but also contains important immune defense substances such as antibodies, lymphocytes, and enzymes. When the gland is irritated by the allergen, it produces tears that work at flushing out the irritating allergen.

Types of eye allergies

There are two main types of eye allergies: seasonal and perennial allergies. Seasonal allergy lasts for only a short period of time. From its name, this condition happens seasonally. You will suffer from it during spring due to tree pollen, in summer due to grass pollen, and in fall due to weed pollen. According to allergy doctors, the symptoms of the condition only occur during the seasons then disappear completely. In perennial eye allergies, the symptoms last the entire year. The most common causes of the allergies are: dust mites, pet dander, and cockroaches. In most cases, the allergies get worse if you are also allergic to the outdoor allergens.

When to visit an allergy clinic

The best way of avoiding the eye allergies is by knowing the cause of the allergies and avoiding them. While some people know what causes the condition, others don’t. You should visit your local allergy clinic if you can’t really tell the causes of the allergy. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you should get an appointment with an expert before the season begins. If you suffer from perennial allergies, you should regularly visit your allergy doctor so that he/she can monitor your condition.