Anyone with eye allergies knows how frustrating and disruptive they can be. At the eye care center of Dr. L R Gabe, in Show Low, Arizona, they’re happy to offer patients advice about reducing their symptoms and avoiding triggers. To minimize your allergies, it’s important to know what causes them.

Treating Eye Allergies: Advice From Your Eye Care Center

Opticians categorize eye allergies into three separate groups, based on the trigger causing the reaction: allergies triggered by outdoor allergens, reactions triggered by indoor allergens, and reactions triggered by general irritants, like smoke. Because some common triggers, like pollen, are more prevalent and airborne during certain times of the year, eye allergies are often seasonal.

Regardless of the trigger, symptoms of an eye allergy often include itchiness, redness, watery discharge, and a burning sensation. For some patients, the symptoms are relatively mild, but for others, they can significantly diminish their quality of life.

The best way to prevent a reaction is to avoid exposure to common triggers. If your allergies are seasonal in nature, keep your windows closed while you’re indoors to limit pollen getting in. Wear glasses during high-pollen seasons for extra protection, and wash your hands thoroughly after petting any animals. Be vigilant about preventing water or moisture from leaking into your home, as it could result in mold growth.

While these preventative measures can potentially help limit your number of significant reactions if they’re not effective, head to an eye care center and ask the optician what they suggest. Although you can purchase over-the-counter treatments like artificial tears, they may prescribe eyedrops for the best possible results.

If you’re prone to eye allergies, make an appointment at the optometry office of Dr. L R Gabe, in Show Low, Arizona. He and his dedicated team will examine your eyes and decide on the best course of treatment for your needs. Contact them online to learn more about becoming a patient, or call (928) 537-5565.