Eye Allergies in Greenbelt & Bowie, MD

Q: What are eye allergies and how common are they?

A: Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, affect nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Symptoms include itchy, swollen, red, and watery eyes, often accompanied by other allergy symptoms like sneezing.

Q: What are the symptoms of eye allergies?

A: Common symptoms include watery, itchy, and red eyes, with swelling and itching of the eyelids. Severe cases may cause burning, sore eyes, and light sensitivity.

Q: What causes eye allergies?

A: Eye allergies are triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, perfumes, cigarettes, and makeup. These triggers cause your immune system to react, leading to symptoms in the eyes.

Q: How can Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons help with eye allergies?

A: We offer a proprietary, FDA-approved diagnostic test called Doctor's Allergy to identify the specific allergens causing your symptoms. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Q: What are the treatment options for eye allergies?

A: Treatment includes limiting exposure to allergens, using disposable contact lenses (if applicable), and prescription eye drops or medications. If over-the-counter eye drops aren't effective, a thorough eye exam and Doctor's Allergy test may be needed to determine the best treatment.

Q: How can I get relief from eye allergies?

A: If you’re struggling with eye allergy symptoms, contact Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons for a comprehensive eye exam. Our board-certified ophthalmologists can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and provide effective treatment options, including prescription medications.

Q: What do patients say about Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons?

A: "I really like the doctors here. The staff takes great care of patients, and the facilities are always well kept. Everyone takes pride in what they do!" – A.W. / Google

The most typical symptoms of ocular allergies are watery, itchy, red eyes. For many people, the symptoms of ocular allergies also affect the eyelids. The eyelids can also become itchy, swollen, and red. Patients whose eye allergies are severe can experience burning and/or sore eyes and light sensitivity.

Ocular allergies, or eye allergies, are simply your eyes reacting to the same things that trigger your other allergic reactions, such as sneezing or a runny nose. Most patients with eye allergies are reacting to pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, and other common airborne allergens. Many patients can also have allergic eye reactions to perfumes, cigarettes, and makeup. If you are a candidate for our Doctor's Allergy test, we can determine exactly what your body is reacting to and create the best treatment plan for your situation.

As with any allergic reaction, the best way to prevent eye allergies is to limit your exposure to the allergen. However, it is sometimes very difficult to do this, especially if your allergy is to pollen and/or dust. If you are a contact lens wearer with allergies, it's best to use disposable contacts that you only use once. Airborne allergens can build up quickly on contacts, even if you wash them with a solution.

If you have been using over-the-counter eye drops, but they aren't working, you may need a prescription eye drop or medication, or you may have an infection rather than allergies. At Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we will perform a thorough eye exam, as well as the Doctor's Allergy test, to determine exactly what is causing your symptoms. Once we know the cause, we can prescribe the best eye drops or other medication for your condition.

Ocular (eye) allergy symptoms can be uncomfortable and quite frustrating. While there are some over-the-counter and home remedies that can provide some relief, many patients need prescription eye drops or medication. At Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons, our board-certified ophthalmologists will ensure that you receive the diagnosis and treatment you need for relief. Contact our Greenbelt or Bowie, MD office to schedule your eye exam.