Any allergen that causes some kind of disturbance to your eyes could possibly indicate ocular allergies. The most common symptom of ocular allergy is burning sensation, redness, itching and swelling. If your eyes get swelled up during a particular season or if they suddenly become red, then that could point towards scheduling a time with an allergist. This one of the reasons why doctors always advise to wash hands properly before touching eyes and to use only clean cloth to wipe the eye off. Sometimes ocular allergy could also result from splashing dirty water on the eyes. The worst part is the irritation that allergies to the eye could cause. It is not at all a pleasant situation. Here are some tips that should help you avoid or take control of the allergy, though before trying any of these, it is always better to consult an allergy specialist.
Precautions & Management
The first thing to note is whenever you go out, wear sunglasses. And don’t by any shoddy pair; make sure that you are purchasing UV protection sunglasses that can keep your eyes safe. Whenever you are touching your eyes, wash your hands with at least water and then use a clean cloth gently. If you suffer from ocular allergies or have had some symptoms earlier, then visit a doctor who can advise or detect the allergen. Then try to take extra precautions for that allergen. Quite often when we are in a strong emotional state, we are careless with the eyes; that should be avoided at all costs. Wearing reading glasses or sunglasses could help in that to quite an extent.
Medication
There are certain over the counter drugs that can be used to alleviate the irritation during eye allergy. But it is still advised not to use them blindly! You should always consult an allergist to help you identify the best medicine that would suite your eye. Wrong medication could further damage the eye. Some of the commonly administered medications are:
- Artificial tears
- Antihistamine drops, that help during itching
- Swelling control drops
- Decongestant drops
Most of the eye related medicines would be in the form of drops. Precaution should be taken while administering these drops. You have to make sure that you hold your eye lids with clean hands and then you use clean cloth to wipe the tears. Do consult your allergist about the medication that would be best suited for you.