The itchy eyes are back! Allergy season!

It's that season again...itchy eye season. The spring and fall are the times when our eyes are most reactive to airborn allergy elements. Pollen, grass, ragweed, hay fever....all of these can trigger allergic reactions in peoples' eyes. And let's not forget blepharitis, the most common eye problem seen in most eye doctor's offices. Many patient use over-the-counter allergy drops, but most eye doctors don't recommend them. Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, or 'allergy eyes' is an art. Sometimes, simple application of lubricating eyedrops is all that is needed. Other times more aggressive measures are the answer. Occasionally, patients even need steroid eye drops. In general, the fist step is to apply lubricating drops during the day, and use lid hygeine in the evening. This may be all that is needed to help alleviate symptoms. If this does not work, a visit to the doctor is needed to figure out the next step. Prescription drops for allergies may seem expensive, but since they can act for 24 hours, they may actually be less expensive than the over-the-counter drops, that need to be used 4 times daiiy. The prescription drops are also usually more effective because they work on several areas of allergic reaction. Steroid drops can also be used, but are usually only needed for a short period of time. During this time, an eye doctor should carefully monitor the patient for increases in eye pressure. Careful consideration of all of the different modes of treatment can usually make the most uncomfortable patient very happy and 'itch free'. For an appointment with Dr. Goldstein, call 586-323-2020, or go to his website, www.2020vision.com.

My eyes ITCH! Itchy eyes and allergies.

NBC's 'Nightly News' recently teased one of their stories with the statement that this year may be our worst year for allergies EVER. The story went on to explain that high levels of rain lead to more plant growth, and thus more pollen and other allergens in the air.
My staff and I can certainly lend some credence to the statements made on that TV show! We are seeing a very high frequency of allergic conjunctivitis or 'allergy eyes' in our office this spring.
Allergies cause a pretty classic set of symptoms, of which itching is the most common. Redness of the white of the eye, and eyelids is also pretty typical, along with a white discharge and some tearing. Both eyes are usually equally involved, and there may also be light sensitivity in some patients.
Treatment consists of cool compresses to ease the itching and artificial tears to rinse out the mucous and the pollens and other allergens that may be the cause of the problem. Prescription eyedrops are more effective than the over-the-counter drops that are available, and may also last longer during the day, so that they won't need to be taken as often. Occasionally, a steroid eyedrop may be needed for a couple of weeks.
Proper diagnosis and treatment by an ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Goldstein, may allow a speedier recovery from the problem. Call the office at 586-323-2020 to arrange an appointment. You can also check out the website,