subject: The Importance Of Allergy Eye Drops [print this page] Millions of people living in the UK and in other parts of the world suffer from the miseries of allergies with allergic reactions involving the eye. Eye allergies mainly involve the conjunctiva, and are mostly referred to as allergic conjunctivitis.
Several symptoms of eye allergies can be very distressing, annoying and uncomfortable.
Causes of Eye Allergies:
Just like nasal allergies and skin rashes, eye allergies develop when the immune system of the body becomes sensitized and reacts to something that is otherwise harmless. An eye allergy can occur whenever an allergen comes in contact with your eyes. It causes irritation and results in swelling up of the eye and the eye turns red and itchy. However, the use of cosmetics and medication can also be a significant reason for eye allergies.
Treatment of Eye Allergies:
Some allergy eye drops are available over-the-counter. Over-the-counter eye drops are mostly used for short term relief and may not relieve all symptoms. However prescription eye drops can be used for both short- and long- term relief. Some eye drops such as antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers are absolutely safe and are also recommended for children.
Different types of Allergy Eye Drops and Medications:
Tear Substitutes - When the eyes are dry and itchy, artificial tears can temporarily wash away the allergens and make the eyes moist.
Decongestants - Antihistamines - These are used for short term relief and these treat the redness problems. These drops are weak and should be frequently used. However, prolonged usage might be harmful.
Mast Cell Stabilizers - These drops prevent the release of histamine and other substances which cause allergic symptoms.
Antihistamine/Mast Cell Stabilizers - Some of the latest drops have both antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer action. These drops provide long term relief and can be used up to twice a day.
Corticosteroids - Steroid eye drops can help treat chronic and sever eye allergy symptoms such as itching, redness and swelling. However, prolonged usage might have side effects.
Alcon Laboratories in the UK has also come out with a new type of eye drop - Alomide Allergy Eye Drops. These drops contain the active ingredient lodoxamide. Eye drops containing lodoxamide work by stabilizing immune eye cells and helps reduce allergic symptoms. It is mainly used for treating allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children above 4 years of age.
Safety Measures:
Eye drops shouldn't be used if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Doing so may result in increased swelling and redness.
If you experience irritation and the allergy ceases to go away, contact your physician and go for proper medication.
Some of the drops should be used according to the proper dosage. Over usage might be harmful.
Some eye drops might cause side effects such as headache, itchiness, blurred vision, nausea and dizziness.
It is always wise to consult your doctor before using any eye drops. Since eye allergies can be of various types, it would be advisable to consult a doctor reputed in the relevant field.
