Seeing an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist for Eye Allergies

Seasonal allergies affect millions of people. For some, the symptoms are a minor nuisance. For others, symptoms from allergies ruin their quality of life. As part of an effective treatment program for eye allergies, many people will schedule an appointment with their optometrist or ophthalmologist for an eye exam in Gulfport. At Benefield Eye Care PC and Coastal Eye Surgery Center in Gulfport, MS, our team is ready to help.

Should I See an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist for Eye Allergies?

Although allergies usually cause nasal congestion, sneezing and excess sniffing, your eyes are also subject to allergies. Burning eyelids, watery eyes, and itching may be symptoms of allergies. For many people, eye allergies are as common as respiratory allergies.

You should schedule an appointment with our eye doctor for eye dryness, red/bloodshot eyes, eye pain or pressure/headaches in or around your eyes. In some cases, these symptoms are a sign of something else happening other than allergies.

Sinus disease, glaucoma, inflammation, broken blood vessels, and cataracts may sometimes be what's causing you to experience these symptoms. However, many people visit their optometrist if they're experiencing symptoms from eye allergies. Some patients might take eye drops for their conditions – only to find out later their allergic to the eye drops. The lubricating chemicals in eye drops sometimes cause people to have allergic reactions.

Causes of Eye Allergies

Symptoms of allergies – whether it's respiratory allergies or eye allergies – occur when your body's immune system reacts to allergens. When an allergen gets into your eyes, your eye cells (mast cells) release substances such as histamine to fight it off. When your eyes become itchy, red or swollen, they are reacting to the release of substances.

Indoor and outdoor allergens in the air cause most eye and respiratory allergies. Pet dander, pollen, mold, smoke and dust are some of the main causes of allergies. Allergic responses also occur when people react to cosmetics, perfumes and medications. In many cases, our eye doctor can check to see if your allergies are seasonal or if you might have allergic conjunctivitis – also known as "pink eye."

Contact Us for More Information

Here at Benefield Eye Care PC and Coastal Eye Surgery Center in Gulfport, MS, we're ready to perform a comprehensive eye exam and put together a personalized treatment plan based on your eye care needs, personal preferences, and budget. Call us today at (228) 328-0972 to learn more about eye allergies.