The most common allergies affecting the eye are those related to pollen, particularly when the weather is warm and dry. Symptoms include redness, itching, tearing, burning, stinging and watery discharge. Prescribed antihistamine/decongestant eyedrops can effectively reduce these symptoms.

An increasing number of eye allergies are related to medications or other environmental causes. Animal hair and certain cosmetics, such as mascara, face creams, eyebrow pencils and, in some cases, lip gloss and eye makeup, may also cause allergies that affect the eyes. Touching or rubbing eyes after handling nail polish, soaps or chemicals can also result in an allergic reaction. These allergy symptoms are usually temporary and will dissipate with time. However, it is advisable to avoid contact with any offending cosmetic or detergent that leads to an allergic reaction.

top