Many people experience eye irritation caused by common things in the environment such as dust and pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. These substances are called "allergens," and they can cause symptoms such as itchy eyes. An ocular (eye) allergy can happen suddenly or some time after you come in contact with the allergen. Your doctor may refer to your ocular allergy by its medical name, allergic conjunctivitis.
Seasonal allergies are usually caused by ragweed or pollen, which comes from grasses, trees, and flowering plants. The symptoms are worse when the amount of pollen in the air (called the pollen count) is high. This usually happens during the spring (grasses, trees), late summer, and autumn months (ragweed).
Perennial allergies occur year-around because the allergens that cause the symptoms are always present. Some common household allergens that cause perennial eye allergies include dust mites, mold, pet hair, and pet dander.
Current research shows that 88% of patients who are prone to allergic conjunctivitis experience ocular itching and 67% are extremely bothered by ocular itching. Approximately one third of those surveyed are not satisfied with their current ocular itching treatment.
If you suffer from itchy eyes, ocular allergies may be the cause. Be sure to make an appointment to see you eye care professional. He or she will to diagnose your condition and discuss with you whether Elestat ophthalmic solution is the right prescription eye drop to relieve your ocular itching.
