When Should You See An Eye Doctor for Allergies?

Itchy, scratchy eyes are an unfortunate part of every spring for many people. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you're probably used to dealing with eye problems along with the sneezing and stuffy nose. Sometimes those troubled eyes are an indicator of something more serious. Here at Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian we see patients every year who have suffered from eye problems that had nothing to do with season allergies. The key to dealing with these ailments is in knowing when to see an eye doctor instead of treating the problem at home.

Our Optometrist in Meridian Explains Various Eye Symptoms

If your eyes are itchy and watery at the same time you're suffering from sneezing fits and a stuffy nose, the odds are good that your eye problems are related to seasonal allergies. If you don't have any other problems at the time, your itchy eyes can be a sign that something else is wrong.

• Blepharitis is a non-contagious disorder that affects the skin and follicles at the base of your eyelashes. If you wake up with a crusty discharge along your lash line, along with itching, burning, or excessive tearing, this may be the problem. An eye exam in our office is the only way to be sure
• Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is a contagious disease that affects the lining inside the eyelid as well as the eye itself. If you have itching and watering along with a pinkish cast to the whites of one or both of your eyes, this is a sign you may have pink eye
• Thimerisol is an ingredient in many contact lens solutions. If you wear contact lenses and our doctor has ruled out eye disease as the problem, you may be allergic to your contact lens cleaning solution. Our eye doctor will have you avoid contact lenses for a period of time to test for this allergy

Many eye disorders can become serious if left untreated, so if you have any symptoms that you're concerned about, call Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian today at 601-485-2020.