Itchy Eyes at Pflugerville Vision Care
Itchy eyes are a nuisance, especially when there seems to be no relief in sight. Since scratching is never a good idea, you should book an appointment with an optometrist who can recommend itchy eye treatments such as eye drops, wearing eyeglasses, and more. Part of figuring out itchy eye treatments is to understand what caused them. Pflugerville Vision Care of Pflugerville, TX, offers common causes of your itchy eyes and solutions.
Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies are a common cause of itchy eyes. If your eyes get itchy around the same time every year, you may be allergic to something in the environment. One common allergen is ragweed, which releases pollen during the fall. Other allergens that can cause itchy eyes include pet dander, dust mites, and mold. To reduce symptoms, it's important to avoid contact with seasonal allergens as much as possible.
Eye Infections
Infections are another potential cause of itchy eyes. Conjunctivitis, or pink eyes, can cause itchy, red, and swollen eyes. Uveitis, an inflammation of the iris, can also cause eye pain and sensitivity to light. Both types of infections require medical evaluation and treatment, which may include antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dryness can also cause itchy eyes, especially if you spend a lot of time staring at a computer screen or in a dry environment. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes moist and refreshed, but certain factors, like aging or medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, can reduce tear production. Medications like antidepressants and decongestants can also cause dry eyes. Artificial tears can be effective for providing temporary relief, while medicated eye drops may be necessary for chronic dryness.
Eye Strain
Eyestrain is another potential cause of itchy eyes. Spending too much time staring at screens or driving for long periods can strain the eyes and cause discomfort. Taking breaks to rest your eyes and adjusting your environment to reduce glare can help alleviate symptoms.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for itchy eyes depend on the underlying cause. Allergy treatments like shots and antihistamines are effective ways of managing seasonal allergies. For infections, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drops may be necessary. Dry eyes are treated with artificial tears or medicated drops, while eyestrain can be managed by taking breaks and reducing glare.
No matter the cause of your itchy eyes, you should see an optometrist if you're dealing with constant red eyes or discomfort. This issue can cause damage to your eye, and it's essential to seek care to avoid further irritation.
Compassionate and Thorough Eye Care in Pflugerville
At Pflugerville Vision Care in Pflugerville, TX, we offer a range of itchy eye treatments to treat your red eyes for good. Schedule an appointment with our optometrist at our Pflugerville, TX, by calling (512) 251-4099.