Itchy Eyes Specialist

What causes itchy eyes?

Allergies are the most common cause of itchy eyes. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a substance (allergen) it considers harmful to your body. 

Itchy eyes most often result from airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Chemicals in the air that contact the eyelids may also trigger an allergic reaction that causes your eyes to itch.

When an allergen comes in contact with your eyes, it triggers your cells to release histamine, which causes itching, swelling, and redness in your eyes.

Itchy eyes may also develop from an underlying eye condition such as dry eyes or blepharitis.  

How do I know if allergies are causing my itchy eyes?

Allergy testing is the only way to know if allergies cause your itchy eyes. Allergy and Asthma Specialist Doctors, Inc., offers comprehensive allergy testing. 

If you suspect your itchy eyes are due to allergies, the team can help you find the source and develop a plan so you can get relief. 

Allergy testing at Allergy and Asthma Specialist Doctors, Inc., may include skin prick or allergy patch testing. 

Skin prick allergy testing

Skin prick allergy testing is an in-office test. During the test, your provider pricks your skin with suspected allergens and waits for a reaction, which typically occurs within 15 minutes.

A red, raised bump at the site of the skin prick indicates an allergy. 

Allergy patch testing

Allergy patch testing looks for allergies that may take longer to appear. For this test, your allergist places special patches with suspected allergens on your arms or back. 

The patches remain in place for 48 hours; then, you return to the office so your allergist can remove the patches and look for signs of irritation that may indicate an allergy. 

How are itchy eyes treated?

Once your provider at Allergy and Asthma Specialist Doctors, Inc., identifies the allergen causing your itchy eyes, they develop a plan to help you get relief. Treatment may include:

• Avoidance of the allergen
• Modifications to your lifestyle to limit exposure to the allergen
• Antihistamine
• Allergy medication
• Eye drops
• Immunotherapy
  
  

The experts at Allergy and Asthma Specialist Doctors, Inc., work one-on-one with you to develop a treatment plan that provides the most relief from your allergy symptoms. 

To find out what’s causing your itchy eyes, call Allergy and Asthma Specialist Doctors, Inc., or book an appointment online today.