Eye Allergy Treatment in Canberra

Do your eyes itch and water every time the seasons change? Are seasonal allergies making it difficult to enjoy the outdoors?

Allergies don’t just affect the nose—your eyes are also vulnerable. And while many people think that eye allergies are harmless, they can lead to serious conditions if left untreated.

I’m Juliet Menakaya, owner and principal optometrist at Junic Eye Care. Over the years, I’ve helped countless patients in Canberra manage eye allergies and improve their quality of life. I understand how frustrating and uncomfortable allergies can be, especially when they affect your vision. At our clinic, we offer personalized care to address your symptoms and prevent long-term damage.

The sooner you commence eye allergy treatment, the sooner you’ll find relief— so schedule your consultation today, and let’s start with an eye health assessment.

3 Key Takeaways:

• Rubbing your eyes can cause long-term damage like keratoconus, making it essential to manage allergies with the right treatment.
• Proper management of indoor and outdoor allergens can significantly reduce eye allergy symptoms.
• Consulting an optometrist early can help you access tailored treatments, from prescription drops to advanced therapies.

Common Causes of Eye Allergies

Why do so many people in Canberra need treatment for eye allergies, especially during certain times of the year? The main culprit is often seasonal allergens like pollen from grass, trees, and weeds, which become more prevalent during the spring and summer months. These airborne irritants can easily make their way into your eyes, triggering allergic reactions that leave you feeling uncomfortable and irritated.

But it’s not just the outdoors causing trouble. Indoor allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold can also lead to eye allergies. Humidity levels play a role too, as higher moisture can increase the presence of these allergens. Even smoke and certain chemicals in the air can contribute to eye discomfort.

By identifying these common triggers, you can take steps to manage your exposure and minimise discomfort.

Symptoms of Eye Allergies

How can you tell if your eyes are reacting to allergies? Eye allergies often come with a range of frustrating symptoms that make daily life uncomfortable. One of the most common signs is itching and redness. That constant urge to rub your eyes can quickly lead to even more irritation, leaving your eyes red and inflamed. While it might feel like a relief in the moment, rubbing your eyes only worsens the problem, potentially causing further damage.

You might also notice tearing and swelling. Allergic reactions often cause your eyes to water excessively, leading to a watery discharge that can leave your eyelids feeling sticky or uncomfortable. Along with this, many people experience puffy eyelids, which can make the eyes feel heavy and tired throughout the day.

Another symptom of eye allergies is sensitivity to light. Photophobia, or light sensitivity, can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, especially in bright environments. This added discomfort often forces people to seek darker spaces to ease the irritation.

If you’re dealing with any of these symptoms, it’s essential to take steps to manage them before they disrupt your daily life. A professional eye examination can help determine the severity of your allergies and the best treatment options to relieve these symptoms.

Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis

Which type of allergic conjunctivitis is affecting you? Understanding the specific type can help in finding the most effective treatment. There are several forms of allergic conjunctivitis, each with its own triggers and symptoms.

Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis is the most common type, and as the name suggests, it’s triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen. People living in Canberra often experience flare-ups during spring and summer, when pollen counts are at their highest. Symptoms such as itching, redness, and watery eyes tend to come and go with the seasons, making this condition more predictable yet still disruptive.

On the other hand, Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis occurs year-round. This type is caused by indoor allergens like pet dander, dust mites, or mold, which are present throughout the year. Patients with perennial conjunctivitis often deal with chronic discomfort, including persistent irritation and itching that can be difficult to manage without proper treatment.

More severe forms of allergic conjunctivitis include Vernal and Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis, which primarily affect young males. These forms are much more serious and can lead to thick mucus discharge, intense itching, and in some cases, even damage to the cornea. This damage can affect vision if not addressed early.

Each form of allergic conjunctivitis requires a different approach to management, which is why it’s essential to have your eyes examined to determine the type you’re dealing with. Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term damage and ensures the most effective treatment.

Eye Allergy Treatment Options

How do you find relief from the discomfort of eye allergies? Fortunately, several effective treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and provide much-needed relief.

One of the most commonly used treatments is antihistamine eye drops. These drops work by reducing the itchiness and inflammation caused by allergens, offering quick relief. There are both over-the-counter and prescription-strength options available. While over-the-counter drops can be effective for mild symptoms, prescription drops may be necessary for more severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis to provide stronger, longer-lasting results.

For those dealing with dryness and irritation, artificial tears and lubricants are a simple but effective solution. These eye drops help flush out allergens from the surface of your eye and keep them moisturised, reducing the discomfort caused by dryness. They’re especially helpful for those who spend a lot of time outdoors or in air-conditioned environments, where allergens and dry air can worsen symptoms.

Another easy and effective method is using cool compresses and ice packs. Applying a cold, clean cloth over your eyes can help soothe puffiness and irritation caused by allergies. The cold temperature reduces inflammation, providing a refreshing sensation that eases discomfort. Just be sure to use a fresh cloth each time to prevent any additional irritation or infection.

While these treatments offer relief, it’s important to remember that long-term management may require a combination of approaches, including lifestyle adjustments and professional care. If your symptoms persist or worsen, visiting an eye specialist for a comprehensive exam can help identify the best course of action tailored to your needs.

If you want to learn more tips and remedies for eye allergies, watch the following video by Dr. Joseph Allen.

Prevention and Management of Eye Allergies

How can you prevent eye allergies from flaring up and manage them effectively when they do? While treatments offer relief, prevention is the key to keeping allergies under control and minimising discomfort.

To start, one of the best ways to avoid symptoms is by reducing exposure to outdoor triggers. During high pollen seasons in Canberra, it’s a good idea to stay indoors as much as possible, particularly on windy days when pollen is more likely to be in the air. Wearing wraparound sunglasses when you’re outside is another simple step that helps shield your eyes from pollen and other airborne irritants.

Managing indoor allergens is just as important. Regularly cleaning bedding, carpets, and curtains can help reduce the presence of dust mites and pet dander, two common culprits for eye allergies. Using air filters and dehumidifiers can also help maintain an allergy-friendly indoor environment, especially in homes with pets or where mold may be an issue.

For those who wear contact lenses, proper care and safe practices are essential. Allergens can easily get trapped on your lenses, leading to more irritation and discomfort. Thoroughly cleaning your lenses each day and switching to glasses during allergy flare-ups can reduce the chances of allergens irritating your eyes. Some people may even benefit from changing to daily disposable lenses to avoid allergen build-up.

Prevention isn’t always foolproof, and allergies can still flare up despite your best efforts. However, by minimising your exposure to known allergens and using safe eye care practices, you can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms. If your symptoms persist, it’s important to consult with an eye specialist who can recommend additional treatments or strategies tailored to your situation.

The Dangers of Eye Rubbing: How It Can Lead to Long-Term Conditions

Why does rubbing your eyes feel so good, yet come with so many risks? While it may offer temporary relief, rubbing your eyes can do far more harm than good, especially if you suffer from allergies. Eye rubbing stimulates tear production, which helps soothe irritation briefly, but it can also lead to increased inflammation and damage to the delicate tissues around the eyes.

One serious concern linked to frequent eye rubbing is the development of keratoconus. This condition occurs when the cornea becomes progressively thinner and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. The mechanical force of rubbing weakens the corneal structure over time, putting you at a higher risk of developing keratoconus. Once this condition progresses, it can lead to significant vision impairment and may require treatments like corneal cross-linking or even surgery.

To prevent these long-term issues, it’s important to find healthier ways to manage irritation. Antihistamine drops and artificial tears offer a much safer alternative to eye rubbing and help alleviate discomfort.

When to See an Optometrist for Eye Allergy Treatment

When should you see an optometrist for eye allergies? While over-the-counter treatments can provide relief for mild cases, there are times when professional care is necessary. If your symptoms persist despite using antihistamine drops or artificial tears, it’s important to book an appointment with an optometrist. Persistent itching, redness, swelling, or tearing can indicate a more serious underlying issue that needs attention.

Optometrists can provide prescription treatments like stronger antihistamine drops, corticosteroids, or even recommend allergy shots for chronic sufferers. These advanced treatments target the root cause of the allergies and offer more lasting relief. In severe cases, such as when allergic conjunctivitis is accompanied by keratoconus or other complications, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing permanent damage to your vision.

CONCLUSION

Eye allergies are commonly caused by pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold, leading to symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling. Seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis are the most common forms, each requiring different treatment strategies.

It’s VERY important to remember that rubbing your eyes, though tempting, can worsen the condition and even lead to long-term vision problems like keratoconus. Consulting an optometrist is crucial for diagnosing and treating eye allergies early to prevent complications.

Be proactive and protect your vision by seeking professional care for treatment of your eye allergies as soon as possible.

To visit our optometry practice, click the “Book Online” button at the top of the page or call (02) 6152 8585 today.

You’ll find our clinic conveniently located in the Molonglo Health Hub, just a short 10 minute drive from central Canberra, with plenty of free parking when you get here.