Eye Allergies

Eye allergies can leave your eyes red, itchy, and irritated, affecting your vision and quality of life.  At Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx, New York City, experienced optometrist Rostislav Ryvkin, OD, specializes in diagnosing and treating eye allergies that cause redness, itching, and discharge. Various treatments like prescription eyedrops, immunotherapy, and lifestyle changes can provide relief and restore your vision. Call Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx today to schedule an eye allergy appointment, or book your visit online. 

Do eye allergies cause eye irritation?

Yes. Eye allergies occur when your body overreacts to harmless substances in the environment, like dust, pet hair, or pollen. When you come into contact with an allergen, your body produces histamines that trigger uncomfortable symptoms.

Common side effects of eye allergies include:

• Itching
• Redness
• Burning
• Lens discomfort
• Puffiness
• Blurred vision
• Mucus discharge
• Clear, watery discharge

Some people with eye allergies experience increased sensitivity to light and the feeling of having something stuck in their eye (foreign body sensation). 

Should I visit an optometrist about eye allergies?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx if you have symptoms of eye allergies that you can’t treat on your own. 

Dr. Ryvkin works with you to determine what’s triggering your symptoms. He completes a comprehensive eye exam to identify the cause of burning, discharge, and eye irritation.

If your eyes are otherwise healthy, Dr. Ryvkin develops a personalized treatment plan to relieve eye allergy symptoms and reduce the frequency of allergy attacks.

How are eye allergies treated?

Treatment of eye allergies depends on what’s triggering your allergic reactions and the severity of your symptoms.

Dr. Ryvkin might suggest:

Eyedrops

Over-the-counter eyedrops can soothe and hydrate your eyes to relieve itching and redness. You may also benefit from medicated (prescription) drops that contain antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce allergy-related redness and inflammation.

Allergy medications

Oral or inhaled medications can relieve sneezing, congestion, and eye symptoms that affect your quality of life.

Immunotherapy

You might benefit from immunotherapy if oral allergy medications cause dry eyes or don’t relieve your symptoms. 

This treatment involves injections of known allergens to reduce your body’s response. Over time, the injections prevent allergy attacks from occurring.

Lifestyle changes

Dr. Ryvkin might recommend lifestyle changes to reduce your exposure to allergens. For example, you should stay indoors with the windows closed when pollen counts are high. 

It’s also important to vacuum your home frequently to reduce dust and other debris from building up in your living environment.

If you have pets, wash your hands after petting them, and keep them out of your bedroom so you aren’t exposed to animal allergens during sleep. 

Don’t let eye allergies keep you from your favorite activities. Call Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx today to schedule treatment for eye allergies or book your appointment online.