How to Reduce Allergic Eye Swelling
Allergic eye swelling can be caused by pets, pollen, chemicals, cosmetics, medications and food allergies. In addition to eye swelling, your eyes may become red, itch and burn. It is important to see your doctor so he can examine you and evaluate your eye swelling. Your treatment will be dependent upon what your doctor finds in his medical evaluation. There are steps you and your doctor can take to eliminate or reduce your allergic eye swelling.
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Things You'll Need
- Doctor's examination
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Steroid eye drops
- Allergy shots
- Cold compresses
Instructions
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Visit your doctor so he can examine you and check your eyes. There are many causes for allergic eye swelling and irritation that must be ruled out before your doctor can develop a treatment plan.
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Try an anti-inflammatory drug. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can reduce swelling of your eyes. It may also help reduce the pain and irritation that accompanies it.
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Ask about steroid eye drops. Steroid-based eye drops can greatly diminish allergic eye swelling. Thoroughly discuss this option with your doctor, because this medication can cause significant side effects such as elevated eye pressure.
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Inquire about allergy shots. They will help relieve your allergy symptoms, including allergic eye swelling. Your doctor may refer you to an allergist to further discuss your condition and treatment options, including allergy shots. An allergist may give you a series of allergy tests to determine the source of your allergies.
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Use cold compresses. Cold compresses are not only soothing to your eyes, they will help decrease the swelling and irritation. You can use them whenever you want, but make sure you freshen them up periodically, because you want the compresses to remain cool and refreshing.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid eyestrain. Give your eyes a rest from the computer and watching television. Eyestrain can aggravate your already irritated and swollen eyes. If you feel your eyes becoming tired or strained, close them for a few minutes and rest.
If your allergic eye swelling is accompanied by wheezing or difficulty breathing, or if you feel like your throat is closing up, seek emergency medical attention. This may indicate a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical intervention.
