Eye Allergies

Eye allergies are a common complaint, affecting 20%-40% of Americans. Thankfully, various treatments can address the problem quickly and provide lasting relief. At Vistasite Eye Care of Kings Plaza Mall in the Mill Basin neighborhood of Brooklyn in New York City, board-certified optometrists Gary Eppel, OD, and Dmitri Bondarenko, OD, provide complete care for eye allergies, including prescription eye drops and medications. Call the office today to schedule an eye allergy appointment, or book your visit online.

How can I distinguish between dry eyes and eye allergies?

Dry eyes and eye allergies present similar symptoms, including:

• Redness
• Watery or teary eyes
• Gritty or burning sensations
• Excessive blinking

Even so, it’s possible to tell the two apart. That’s because most people with eye allergies suffer from intense itching. Itchy eyes occur when your immune system releases histamine, a chemical that protects against harmful invaders.

Contact Vistasite Eye Care of Kings Plaza Mall right away if your eyes regularly itch and it interferes with work and other routine activities.

What causes eye allergies?

Eye allergies occur because of allergens like pet hair, pollen, mold, smoke, and dust. Cosmetic and skin care products can also trigger symptoms. For example, some people develop eye allergies after using a new eyeliner or perfume. 

How are eye allergies diagnosed?

Your Vistasite Eye Care of Kings Plaza Mall provider starts by asking about your symptoms and lifestyle, including what your eyes feel like, if certain activities, like going outside, make your symptoms worse, and if you smoke or work in a polluted environment. 

They complete a comprehensive eye exam and view the surface of your eyes with a microscope, checking for inflamed blood vessels. Your provider also orders blood work and sends it to the onsite lab for review. These tests check your blood for higher-than-average levels of white blood cells associated with eye allergies. 

How does an optometrist treat eye allergies?

The Vistasite Eye Care of Kings Plaza Mall team treats eye allergies using a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication. They might suggest:

• Wearing glasses or sunglasses outside to keep pollen and dust out of your eyes
• Using “mite-proof” bedding to limit your exposure to dust mites
• Using a dehumidifier to control mold
• Washing your hands after petting animals
• Keeping your windows closed during periods of high pollen
• Prescription or over-the-counter eye drops
• Decongestant eye drops
• Prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines

It might take some trial and error to determine the most effective treatment. Be patient and follow your provider’s instructions. The team can refer you to a specialist, like an allergist if your symptoms continue or worsen. 

Call Vistasite Eye Care of Kings Plaza Mall today to schedule eye allergy treatment or book your appointment online.