Mcdonald Optical
An Elegy For Allergies
Eye Allergy Relief in Iowa City From Professional Optometrists
Doctor’s Note: If your eye allergies are giving you a more challenging time than usual, it might be time for an eye exam. Get in touch with one of McDonald Optical’s Iowa City eye doctors, and get the high-quality treatment you deserve.
What Are Eye Allergies?
Eye allergies, which are also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the eyes come into contact with an allergen and produce a compound called histamine to fight it off. Unlike other forms of conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis cannot spread, as the reaction is an endemic and natural response to a perceived foreign agent within the body.
Eye Allergy Causes
- Pollen.
- Dust.
- Pet dander.
- Mold.
- Smoke.
- Perfume.
- Cosmetics.
- Certain pharmaceuticals.
- Food.
- Insect bites/stings.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
Red, swollen, or itchy eyes.
Burning or teary eyes.
Sensitivity to light.
Eye Allergy Treatments
The best way to avoid the symptoms of eye allergies is to prevent their causes—allergens. If you are unaware, this means you may need to get tested for what you’re allergic to and what would cause allergic conjunctivitis. For example, those who have a sensitivity to pollen may want to keep their windows shut during the initial beginning of spring, as the pollen count is incredibly high at this time of year during the mid-morning and early evening.
Other than purely preventative measures, there are many medications—such as artificial tears, eye drops, decongestants, oral antihistamines, corticosteroids, and mast-cell stabilizers—that can help treat and relieve eye allergies.
One final step could be immunotherapy shots. This procedure is designed to gradually acclimate your body to allergens, effectively and slowly making it immune to any catalyzing agents that could potentially set off an allergic reaction. Reach out to your local optometrist if you’re looking for further advice and guidance.
Contact McDonald Optical at (319)-359-3307 or Book Online Here.
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