Check out the symptoms of eye allergies that you need to know

Eye allergy signs and symptoms

When foreign substances enter the eye, the immune system sends immune cells and various chemical compounds to fight them. This response then causes an allergic and inflammatory reaction resulting in the following symptoms:

1. Red or pink eyes

When an allergic reaction occurs, the small blood vessels (capillaries) inside the eye will dilate. This aims to facilitate the entry of white blood cells, histamine, and other chemical compounds produced by the immune system.

The dilated blood vessels will be more clearly visible on the white surface of the eye. This is why red eyes are the symptom most often complained of by allergy sufferers.

2. The eyes feel itchy

The itching sensation in allergies is usually caused by histamine. Histamine is one of the many chemicals the immune system produces when the body is exposed to allergens. These substances play a role in causing allergy symptoms in various systems in your body.

One of the areas affected by histamine is none other than the eyes. Itching is often felt on the eyelids and surrounding skin. As much as possible, do not rub your eyes or scratch your face as this will make the itching worse.

3. Swollen eyelids

Other symptoms that allergy sufferers often complain about are red and swollen eyelids. Swelling is caused by inflamed conjunctiva or too much rubbing. The conjunctiva is a thin layer that protects the white part of the eye (sclera).

4. Watery eyes

Swollen eyes due to allergies are also usually watery and mucus. This occurs because the eye is trying to get rid of allergens on its surface. However, many factors can cause your eyes to water, so you need further tests.

5. The eye feels sore, sore, or hot

Allergy-induced inflammation not only causes swelling, but also pain especially when you move your eyes. Depending on how severe the allergic reaction is, pain can appear in only one eye or both.

Pain due to inflammation can also radiate to the area around the eyes. You may feel a lump, sore eye area, or even a burning sensation. Immediately consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms.

6. Other symptoms

Apart from the various symptoms mentioned above, there are also eye allergy symptoms that may be less common. Some of the signs you should look out for include:

scaly surface around the eyes
eyes sensitive to bright light
the whites of the eyes are swollen and appear purple
blurred or shadowed vision, as well
other allergy symptoms appear such as runny nose, sneezing, runny nose, or stuffy nose.

Allergic reactions usually appear as soon as you are exposed to an allergen. However, allergies that are triggered by eye drops may appear longer, which is about two to four days after using the drug.

When do you need to see a doctor?

Every eye allergy sufferer can experience the same symptoms, but with different severity. In addition, there are also possible symptoms other than those previously mentioned.

Since eye allergies are very similar to other eye diseases, doctors need a complete examination to make a precise diagnosis. So, even simple symptoms such as red and swollen eyes should be consulted by an ophthalmologist.

Eye allergies are basically harmless, but there is a risk of developing a severe allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock. Although rare, anaphylaxis can occur in people who are not aware that they have an allergy.

The characteristics of anaphylactic shock include shortness of breath, palpitations, and nausea and vomiting shortly after exposure to allergens. If not treated immediately, this condition can lead to fainting, coma, and death.

The good news is that getting allergy symptoms checked is the best way to prevent a severe allergic reaction. If it is proven that you have allergies, the doctor can prescribe eye allergy medication or therapy to reduce its severity.