Ask the Eye Doctor

Dr. Steven Ohlbaum

Q: My eyes are so itchy because of my allergies this time of year, what should I do?

A: Environmental allergies are a very common cause of redness, itching, a white stringy discharge, and swollen eyelids, particularly in the spring and fall. Adding to the discomfort, many oral allergy medications can make your eyes dry. Many people will find adequate relief with preservative free artificial tear drops. Over the counter allergy drops to "get the red out" may help somewhat, but if used frequently they can cause more redness or further irritation due to the preservatives. Fortunately, there are several new prescription allergy eyedrops, including antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and anti-inflammatories that work quite well. Eye allergies can often be worse with contact lens wear, but are usually manageable with disposable lenses, preservative free cleaning systems, and prescription allergy eyedrops.