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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Eye Allergies (for Teenagers)
DESCRIPTION
- itchy eyes with frequent rubbing
- increased tearing
- red or pink eyes (without pus)
- no pain or fever
- mild swelling of the eyelids
- similar symptoms during the same month of the previous
year
SIMILAR CONDITION
If hay fever is suspected, see Hay Fever.
CAUSE
Eye allergies that occur during the same season each year
are caused by pollens. Allergies that are not seasonal may
be caused by pets (for example, cats), feathers, perfumes,
mascara, eyeliner, etc.
EXPECTED COURSE
Most eye allergies due to a pollen last 4 to 6 weeks, which
is the length of most pollen seasons. If the allergic
substance can be identified AND avoided, the symptoms will
not recur (for example, a cat).
HOME CARE
- Remove pollen
First wash the pollen off your face. Then use a clean
washcloth and cool water to clean off your eyelids.
(Tears will wash the pollen out of the eyes.) This
rinse of the eyelids may need to be repeated every time
you come in on a windy day. Pollen also collects in the
hair and on exposed body surfaces. This pollen can
easily be reintroduced into your eyes. Therefore, take
a shower and shampoo every night before bedtime. Try
not to touch your eyes unless your hands have been
washed recently.
- Vasoconstrictive eyedrops
Usually, your eyes will feel much better after the
pollen is washed out and a cold compress (for example, a
cold, wet washcloth) is applied. If they are still
itchy or bloodshot, you may need long-acting
vasoconstrictive eyedrops prescribed by your physician.
- Oral antihistamine
If these measures aren't effective, you probably also
have hay fever (that is, allergic symptoms of the nose)
and need an oral antihistamine prescribed by your
physician.
- Prevention
Don't touch your eyes unless your hands are washed.
Your hands may contain pollen, animal substances, or
other irritants. For young women, mascara or eyeliner
may be the cause.
CALL YOUR PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- This treatment and an antihistamine do not relieve most
of your symptoms in 2 or 3 days.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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