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Can Allergies Cause Swollen Eyes

Symptoms To Watch For

What can cause itchy swelling of upper eyelid & its management? – Dr. Elankumaran P

You may start to have symptoms as soon as the eyes come in contact with the allergen, or you may not have symptoms for two to four days.

Symptoms of eye allergies include:

  • Red, irritated eyes
  • Soreness, burning, or pain
  • Sensitivity to light

Usually youâll also have other allergy symptoms, such as a stuffy, runny nose and sneezing.

How To Treat Dry Eyes From Allergies

There are many different treatments for dry eye ranging from over-the-counter artificial tears to prescription medications to lid procedures. Dr. Schellenberg says finding the right treatment depends on the root of the problem.

The best way to differentiate dry eye syndrome from allergies is to first have an eye exam, as they can be difficult to manage without a treatment plan from an eye doctor.

Ocular allergies are often treated with antihistamine drops. There are several over-the-counter and some stronger prescription antihistamine drops available, she says. Additionally, steroid drops may be needed if ocular allergies are severe.

Since antihistamine drops can decrease tear production, your eye doctor may recommend using preservative-free artificial tears in conjunction with allergy drops to keep your eyes lubricating and from drying out.

Before trying medications, there are several simple things you can try to see if your symptoms improve. Avoiding allergens altogether can limit the histamine production, thus decreasing the dry, itchy feeling in your eyes.

This may sound easier said than done, but avoid going outdoors when pollen counts are higher early at dawn and dusk. Keeping windows closed during the summer can keep allergens from getting in your house. Clean your house regularly to remove dust and pet dander that collects on surfaces.

Tips For Preventing Swollen Eyes

  • Get tested for allergies. If swollen eyelids from allergies are a regular occurrence, knowing what you’re allergic to can help you avoid specific allergens or reduce your exposure to them.

  • Pick beauty products that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free to help avoid allergy flare-ups. Do a patch test on the inside of your wrist before using the makeup on your face to prevent an allergic reaction near your eyes.

  • When using eye drops, look for preservative-free eye drops. Preservatives in regular eye drops slow down bacterial growth, but some people may be allergic to these preservatives.

  • If you wear contact lenses, you can curb your risk of eyelid swelling by practicing proper hygiene. Always wash your hands before inserting or taking out contacts. Frequent replacement of your contact lenses and contact lens case are also part of proper hygiene.

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    When Is A Swollen Eyelid An Emergency

    In some cases, eyelid swelling is a symptom of a serious condition that requires immediate evaluation. Seek immediate medical care if you experience a swollen eyelid alongside any of the following symptoms:

    • a sudden loss of vision
    • eyelid swelling after head trauma
    • anaphylaxis symptoms, which may include:
    • swelling of the tongue, lips, or mouth
    • wheezing or feeling as though your throat is tight
  • swelling in any area of your body
  • high fever, or fever higher than 103°F for adults and 101°F for children, along with other warning signs, such as flushed and tender areas of the body
  • protruding or bulging eye with redness, fever, and pain, as these are symptoms of infection in the eye socket
  • What Causes Eye Allergies

    Puffy Eyes Allergies

    Eye allergies are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens that get into your eyes. Examples of these are pollen, mold spores, dust mites and pet dander. Eye allergies are not contagious. They cannot be spread to another person.

    Irritants like dirt, smoke, chemicals, and chlorine can also cause swelling and redness of the eyes. This reaction is not an allergic reaction. Viruses and bacteria can also cause the same irritation of the eyes. This reaction is also not an allergic reaction. Some medications and cosmetics can also cause eye allergy symptoms.

    The eyes are an easy target for allergens and irritants because they are exposed and sensitive. The body responds to these allergens by releasing chemicals, including histamines, which produce the inflammation.

    Pink eye is something different. It is a viral or bacterial infection of the eye tissue. Its called infectious conjunctivitis. It usually starts in one eye and can spread easily to the other eye within a day or two. This eye condition is easily transmitted from person to person. But it is usually not a serious health risk if diagnosed right away.

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    How Do You Reduce Eye Swelling And Pain

    Apply ice or a cold pack wrapped in a clean, wet washcloth to the eye for 15 to 20 minutes at a time to decrease eyelid swelling and pain. You can safely give your child an allergy medicine or antihistamine by mouth. This will help to decrease eyelid swelling and itching. Benadryl every 6 hours or so is best.

    When To Contact A Medical Professional

    • You have symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis that do not respond to self-care steps and over-the-counter treatment.
    • Your vision is affected.
    • You develop eye pain that is severe or becoming worse.
    • Your eyelids or the skin around your eyes becomes swollen or red.
    • You have a headache in addition to your other symptoms.

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    Why Is My Eyelid Swollen And Drooping

    Your eyelid may be swollen because of an infection or blockage of an oil-secreting gland. This condition is called a chalazion. It usually looks like a red pimple-like area along the top or bottom of the eyelid. You may also have a more dangerous diagnosis, called orbital cellulitis, which can occur when an infection of the eye migrates into the eye socket. Pain, eyelid discoloration, and swelling along with fever, the eye bulging out or protruding, and difficulty moving the eye are common with this type of infection.

    Which Allergies Cause Puffy Eyes

    Swollen eyes – EXPLAINED! | Dr. D’Orio Eyecare

    Allergies that cause puffy eyes are a result of three different forms: airborne, contact and ingested. For each type, the allergen enters the body and causes the immune system to overreact, releasing histamines which in turn cause the inflammation.

    Airborne allergies often affect both the eyes and nose. Among the airborne allergies that cause puffy eyes are seasonal allergies, caused by increased pollen in the air from various sources, including various grasses and ragweed. Other airborne allergens include mold spores, pet dander and dust mites.

    Contact allergies are caused by direct physical contact with the allergen, and are contained within the range of that contact. Common contact allergens to cause puffy eyes are makeup, contact lenses and certain eye drops.

    Allergies that cause puffy eyes via ingestion are often food allergies, which may also cause swelling of facial tissues. Those who suffer from lactose intolerance may experience puffy eyes as a side effect of overall bloating caused by this condition. Shellfish allergies also cause inflammation that can affect the eye area.

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    Eye Allergy Help In Houston

    If you believe your pet is responsible for your eye allergies, schedule an eye exam at the Berkeley Eye Center. Our Houston eye specialists have many years of experience when it comes to determining the cause of an eye allergy and providing our patients with effective treatment and prevention options.

    Types Of Eye Allergies

    There are five types of ocular allergies that can produce symptoms. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is the type most commonly confused with dry eye syndrome.

    • Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis: This is the most common type of eye allergy and occurs when allergens are more prominent during particular seasons.
    • Perennial allergic conjunctivitis: This is similar to seasonal eye allergies except symptoms occur year-round.
    • Giant papillary conjunctivitis : This occurs when the inside of your eyelid gets red, swollen, and irritated. GPC is usually found in people who wear contact lenses.
    • Vernal keratoconjunctivitis : This occurs when hard, elevated bumps appear on the upper eyelid due to an extreme hypersensitivity to allergens. It is more common in warm climates.
    • Atopic keratoconjunctivitis : While vernal keratoconjunctivitis affects the upper eyelid, atopic ketoconjucnitivs is an allergic reaction that typically affects the lower eyelid. More specifically, the conjunctiva becomes red and swollen.

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    What Are Swollen Eyes A Symptom Of

    Eye allergies are the most common cause for swollen eyes. In this case, the swollen eyes are symptomatic of the body’s overreaction to a foreign substance, known as an allergen. Common allergens that can trigger swollen eyes include pollen, dust and pet dander, and can sometimes be due to the changing of the seasons.

    Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

    Woke Up With Swollen Under Eye
    • Severe swelling of one eye without fever
    • Eyelid is very red and swollen without fever
    • Eyelid is painful or very tender
    • Swollen ankles or feet
    • Sinus pain or pressure
    • Moderate swelling with the eye open some. Exception: due to a mosquito bite.
    • You think your child needs to be seen, but the problem is not urgent

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    How To Manage Swollen Eyes From Allergies

    The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that prevention is better than cure. The best way to avoid getting eye allergies is to avoid exposure to allergens. Also, if you have swollen eyes from allergies, it is best to visit your eye doctor immediately. The eye doctor may prescribe medicines and eye drops to reduce the itchiness and inflammation.

    Learn more about swollen eyes from allergies in this video by eMedTV:

    Do you experience swollen eyes from allergies? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

    When A Swollen Eyelid Is An Emergency

    Seek immediate treatment in the emergency room or call 911 if:

    • You have a swollen eyelid along symptoms of anaphylaxis : Such as difficulty breathing with swelling of the face, tongue, and hands
    • You also have body pain, high fever, and rash
    • You also notice pain and/or vision changes when you try to move the eyeball to look around
    • You discover a foreign body somewhere in or underneath the eyelid

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    When Do Swollen Eyes From An Allergic Reaction Occur

    Swollen eyes from an allergic reaction happen when the bodys immune system reacts to an allergen. It can be something you eat, inject into your body, touch, or inhale into your lungs. People can develop symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, a scratchy throat, a skin rash, and swollen eyes. An allergic reaction may cause a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. This causes hives, difficulty in breathing, low blood pressure, asthma attacks, and even death.

    Is A Warm Or Cold Compress Better

    How To: Reduce puffy allergy eyes naturally

    In some cases, such as after crying or having an allergic reaction, a cool compress wrapped in a cloth may help reduce swelling. Other conditions, such as a chalazion, may benefit from a warm compress.

    A swollen eyelid can happen for many reasons, ranging from tiredness to an infection. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or could indicate an infection, the person should seek medical help.

    Some eye conditions can lead to severe complications, including vision loss.

    If a person is unsure, they should never hesitate to seek medical consultation to protect their health.

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    How Do I Treat A Swollen Eyelid

    Home remedies can treat minor bouts of swollen eyelids. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this will only aggravate your condition.

    Try these home treatments for mild cases of swollen eyelids.

    • If you have eye discharge along with your swollen eyelid, use a saline solution to rinse your eyes.

    • Apply a cold, wet compress to your eyes to help reduce the fluid buildup. Cold tea bags can also help with swollen eyelids.

    • If wearing contact lenses, take your contacts out for a few hours.

    • If you have allergies, use eye drops or a topical cream containing antihistamines.

    • Anti-inflammatory eye drops may help with discomfort from swollen eyelids caused by allergies or minor infections like viral pink eye.

    • Lay down or sleep with your head elevated to reduce fluid buildup.

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    What Can I Do To Address Eye Swelling

    Eye puffiness or swelling is a common symptom of allergic conjunctivitis, along with itchy, red eyes, a burning sensation and a clear, watery discharge.

    During an allergic reaction, white blood cells attach to protective mast cells in the mucus membranes of the eyes and nasal passages, and fluid builds up. Tiny blood vessels in and around the eyes leak, leading to inflammation and swelling in surrounding tissues and the watery discharge. Rubbing or scratching the eyes only makes it worse and could lead to infection.

    Eye swelling often occurs at night. One reason this happens is exposure to allergens in the bedroom primarily dust mites and/or pet dander.

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    What Causes Under Eye Swelling And Pain

    Swelling under the eye can develop for a wide range of reasons, from mild conditions, such as allergies or blocked tear ducts, to more severe conditions, such as organ failure. If a person with swelling under the eyes also has difficulty breathing or is in severe pain, they should seek immediate medical help.

    How To Prevent Eyelid Swelling

    Pollen Allergy Swollen Eyes

    Eyelid swelling prevention tips include:

    • Get examined for allergies. If allergies cause swollen eyelids frequently, understanding what you’re allergic to may help you avoid or limit your exposure to particular allergens.
    • Maintain proper eye hygiene. Neglecting your eyes increases the risk of bacterial and viral infections that can cause your eyes to swell.
    • Buy beauty products that are hypoallergenic to avoid flare-ups. It’s always recommended doing a patch test on the wrist to check for any potential skin reactions.
    • Handle your contacts with care. Contact lenses are good but can be a haven for bacteria if exposed to contaminated surfaces or used for extended periods.
    • Attend regular eye checkups. This will help your doctor discover the condition before it worsens.

    In this article

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    Causes Of Eye Discharge

    Blepharitis occurs when the oil glands in your eyelids become plugged with mucus, dirt, or debris from the environment. These glands protect the surface of your eye from these irritants, but if they are inflamed or clogged it can lead to discharge.

    Treatment

    The best way to treat blepharitis is to keep your eyelids clean. You can do this by using:

    • Warm compresses
    • Artificial tears
    • Make-up remover pads

    Questions For Diagnosing The Cause Of Eyelid Swelling

    To diagnose the underlying cause of your eyelid swelling, your primary care physician or eye doctor may ask you several questions related to your symptoms and medical history. For example:

    • Describe the swelling. When did it start? Is it in one or both eyes?
    • Did you have any trauma before the swelling started, such as an injury or bug bite?
    • Did you eat any specific foods or come into contact with any unusual substances preceding the swelling?
    • Are you experiencing any other eye symptoms, such as a change in vision or discharge from your eye?
    • Do you have any other types of symptoms, such as itching, pain, headache, fever, or shortness of breath?
    • Have you had any recent eye surgeries or other eye problems?
    • Do you have any allergies? Have you had recent exposure to any allergens?
    • Do you use ACE inhibitors? These are a type of blood pressure drug sometimes linked to facial and eyelid swelling.
    • Provide your full medical history, including medical conditions, surgeries and treatments, family history, and a list of the medications and dietary supplements that you take.

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    How Bad Can Swollen Eyes Get

    Eye allergies are also known as allergic conjunctivitis, but unlike other forms of conjunctivitis , eye allergies are not contagious, notes the American Academy of Ophthalmology . And eye allergies usually affect both eyes.

    In addition to burning or teary, watery eyes, allergies may make you sensitive to light, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America . A runny nose, cough, or headache often go hand in hand with eye allergies. The AAFA also adds that your vision may be briefly blurry and you may feel distracted or sluggish and unproductive.

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    Who Suffers Swollen Eyes From Allergies

    How Allergies Can Cause Puffy Eye Bags even after Eyelid Surgery

    Many people develop swollen eyes from allergies. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that allergy is the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the United States. The number of allergy cases has increased allergy affects 40 percent of children and 30 percent of adults in the country. The most common symptoms include swollen eyes, skin rashes, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Eye allergies are also called allergic conjunctivitis.

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    Causes Of Swollen Eyelids

    The development of swollen eyelids from food allergies is due to the presence of histamine in the eye area. As the body attempts to ward off the proteins from a particular food, the immune system releases IgE antibodies. The presence of these antibodies in the bloodstream triggers the mast cells to produce histamine.

    Histamine is the chemical that starts the inflammatory process that results to irritation in the area of the body that are made of soft tissue. The elevated level of histamine causes increased flow of blood to parts of the body, resulting to swelling.

    When Should You Contact A Doctor For A Swollen Eyelid

    If you have severely swollen eyelids or your symptoms do not go away with at-home care, speak with your primary care physician or an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are doctors who specialize in eye care. They can make an accurate diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

    If your eyelid swelling is a symptom of an underlying condition, your eye doctor may refer you to other specialists who can treat the root cause.

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