Eye Allergies Prevention from Our Eye Doctor in Elko, NV

Pollen, dust and many other environmental allergens can trigger reactions that affect the eyes. These allergens usually make the eyes itchy, red or watery, which can make it hard for people to do everyday tasks, such as driving. At Total Eyecare, our optometry services include diagnosis and treatment for eye allergies in Elko Nevada. 

Seasonal and Year-Round Eye Allergies

Some people only experience eye allergy symptoms during certain times of the year, such as during spring or fall when pollen and ragweed counts are high. These allergens often cause itchy and watery eyes, along with a runny nose, sneezing, and other symptoms. Other people have eye allergies throughout the year. These are usually caused by an environmental allergen that is present in the home all year, such as mold, dust or pet dander. These allergens can trigger eye allergy symptoms and other symptoms, such as a stuffy nose and coughing, at any time during the year. 

Eye Allergy Symptoms

Itchy and watery eyes are among the most common symptoms of eye allergies, but they can also cause other symptoms, such as a burning feeling or sensitivity to light. Other symptoms include swollen eyelids and a feeling of having something in the eye, such as grit. These symptoms are usually mild, but they can make it difficult for allergy sufferers to read and do other everyday tasks. Having to deal with eye allergy symptoms on a regular basis can also affect individual’s quality of life overall. 

Eye Allergy Treatments in Elko

Treatments for eye allergies usually involve self-care measures, such as applying cold compresses on the eyes to relieve swelling and itching. Over-the-counter medications might also provide short-term relief. Avoiding exposure to allergens also helps reduce eye allergy symptoms, such as dusting and vacuuming regularly or staying indoors on days when pollen counts are high outside. Treatment for severe or persistent eye allergies usually includes reducing allergic reactions. Depending on the allergen involved, this might include having injections to build up a tolerance for a specific allergen or taking prescription medications for allergies. 

Eye Allergy Prevention

There are several ways to prevent eye allergy symptoms, although this can be hard to do with certain allergens, such as dust. Those who have eye allergies can lower their risk of having a reaction by changing air filters, vacuuming and keeping doors and windows closed. Other ways to lower this risk include not touching the eyes and washing hands frequently. Individuals with allergies should also avoid doing outdoor activities if possible when pollen, ragweed, and mold counts are high. 

Contact Our Optometrist in Elko Today!

If you suffer from eye allergies, please contact our optometrist in Elko to set up an appointment. At Total Eyecare, we offer treatments to relieve symptoms of eye allergies, along with vision exams and other eye care services. We can help you find relief from itching, redness and other symptoms caused by certain allergens in your environment. Contact us today at 775-738-8491.