St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center Healthcare Provider for Green Bay ,Wisconsin

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A Woman’s View | spring 2003

Cool Relief for Red Allergy Eyes

The runny nose and sneezing caused by allergies are familiar to many women. But if these symptoms are often coupled with itchy, burning, watery eyes, it might signal an allergic eye disease—allergic conjunctivitis (AC).

Luckily, AC is very common—and treatable. Women can get rid of red eyes by uncovering AC’s triggers and learning some soothing relief tactics.

Look for Clues that Signal Allergies
Allergens waft through the air and dissolve when they reach women’s eyes. In women with AC, specific cells respond by releasing histamine and other chemicals that jump-start allergic reactions. Besides irritation, AC symptoms also may include:

  • dark circles under the eyes
  • crusting on the eyelids
  • sensitivity to light
  • blurred vision.

Outdoor molds and pollen from trees, weeds, and grass may be to blame for AC that surfaces seasonally. The culprits behind year-round problems often include animal dander and dust.

See What You Can Avoid
If you think you’ve developed AC, see your doctor. Once you know for sure, try to avoid its triggers. The following strategies also can help protect your eyes:

  • When pollen counts are high, try to avoid being outside between 5 and 10 a.m.
  • Wear sunglasses or
  • glasses outside to prevent pollen from blowing into your eyes.
  • Consider replacing dust-loving drapes with washable shades, and carpets with hardwood or tile floors.
  • Wipe dust from surfaces and floors with a damp rag at least once a week.

Focus on Relief
Try these tips to relieve irritated, allergy eyes:

  • Refrigerate artificial tears or saline drops and use them two to four times daily.
  • Put ice cubes in a towel or plastic bag and let them rest on your eyes for 15 minutes. A cold washcloth also helps.
  • If you wear contacts, switch to glasses until symptoms improve.

fact
Sometimes, the symptoms of an eye allergy disorder can be triggered by certain cosmetics, such as mascara, face creams, and eyebrow pencils. Most symptoms can be avoided by not touching or rubbing the eyes after applying, and washing hands after handling.


The editorial content of this online publication is taken from the print version of A Woman’s View published by St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center.

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