When life had actually started to appear on earth, one of the very first things to form was the eyes. The importance of eyes for the survival of any species on the earth can be determined from this fact. The defense reaction set up by the body to secure eyes is quite striking. It consists of the eyelids, eyelashes and the conjunctiva, which covers the eyeball. In spite of all this defense reaction of the body, eyes continue to be one of the most sensitive organs in the human body and are always open up to the attack of air-borne allergens.
When dealing with allergens, tears that continually keep the eyes clean however are ineffective. An allergic reaction takes place due to the immune action of the body to a foreign particle. Most of the time an allergy is caused by the overreaction of the body. In the eyes, the allergy occurs to the conjunctiva that is a transparent membrane covering the eyeball and the under surface of the eyelid. Dust, mold, pet dander and tree pollen are some of the most common irritants. If you are allergic to a particular substance, and when your eyes enter contact with the item, it will kick start an allergic reaction.
It is approximated that more 50 million Americans experience different type of allergic reactions. In it, bulks of individuals suffer from eye allergic reactions. Individuals with hay fever or atopic dermatitis or strong family history of allergy are more susceptible to have eye allergic reactions.
Causes of Eye Allergies
An allergic reaction to the conjunctiva is widely called allergic conjunctivitis or 'pink eye.' It differs from soft irritation of the eyes to serious itching, which results in corneal infection. Direct contact with the irritant is the main cause of eye allergies. The contact can happen through air, hands and from products utilized to rub the eyes.
Pollens, spores, family pet dander, hair, dust, lawn, mold, weeds, specific plants, nail polish, certain medicines and secretions like saliva are some of the most typical allergens. The conjunctiva when comes into contact with an irritant produces a chemical called histamine, which triggers the signs related to eye allergies.
Cigarette smoke, wind, perfumes, air contamination, diesel exhaust also creates inflammation to the conjunctiva but this is not consisted of in eye allergic reactions.
Signs of Eye Allergies
Itching is the most important sign of eye allergic reaction. Inflammation, watery discharge, swelling of the eyeball, tearing, burning experience, pain while opening eyelids after sleep, blurred vision, pus formation and the feeling of an alien body in the eye are a few of the common symptoms. Individuals wearing contact lens will have discomfort in wearing it. Eye allergies mainly impact both the eyes.
Dry eye and tear duct blockage are often puzzled as eye allergies. These two kinds of ailments have comparable symptoms to eye allergies. Conjunctivitis can also be brought on by infections and germs.
Conclusion
Eye allergic reactions hardly ever trigger vision problems. Itching is the most vital symptom of allergic eyes. Although most of the eye allergies are not harmful, relentless eye allergies must be treated and it is a good idea to administer drugs after consulting and ophthalmologist.
Individuals with allergic rhinitis or atopic dermatitis or strong household history of allergy are more susceptible to have eye allergic reactions.
Direct contact with the allergen is the main cause of eye allergies. Eye allergic reactions mostly impact both the eyes.
Dry eye and tear duct obstruction are sometimes confused as eye allergies. Many of the eyes allergic reactions are not harmful. Consistent eye allergies should be treated and it is sensible to administer drugs after consulting an eye doctor.