“Dry eyes have a more varied set of symptoms. “Itching is also present, and there may be an intense urge to rub the eyes.” “Allergic conjunctivitis may cause ocular redness, watery eyes, mucus discharge, swelling or puffiness around the eyelids, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light,” she says. Schellenberg notes there are many symptoms that overlap between dry eye and allergic conjunctivitis. Any itching associated with a runny nose or watery eyes also is a sign it is related to allergies. While itching may occur with dry eyes, it is usually more intense with allergic conjunctivitis. ![]() The main difference in symptoms between dry eye and allergic conjunctivitis is intense itching. Differentiating Allergy and Dry Eye Symptoms In some cases, perfume, skin care products, and certain medications can also cause allergic reactions to your eyes. The following are common allergens that can cause eye allergies: The exposure triggers an immune response that causes the release of a chemical, called histamine, that causes swelling and inflammation. Environmental factors (low humidity, allergens, smoke or chemicals)Īllergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, occurs when a person is exposed to an allergen.Medications (antihistamines or decongestants decrease tear production).Age and gender (tear production decreases as you age).Meibomian gland dysfunction (blockage of oil glands).This can occur for many reasons, including: With dry eye syndrome, your eyes either do not produce enough tears or the tears produced are inadequate or unstable. Each tear has three layers – an outer, oily layer a middle, watery layer and an inner, mucus layer. In a healthy eye, tears help keep the cornea (front surface of the eye) lubricated and clear. While the symptoms may be similar, dry eye and allergies have completely different underlying causes. ![]() “It is hard as a patient to be able to tell the cause of symptoms without an examination of the ocular tissues,” she says. Schellenberg says the confusion between dry eye and ocular allergies is due to overlap in symptoms and the fact that many patients actually have both conditions. Schellenberg specializes in optometry and primary eye care. Schellenberg, OD, a clinical instructor at the Dean McGee Eye Institute/University of Oklahoma Department of Ophthalmology, to provide more information on this topic. ![]() Despite their prevalence, it is easy to confuse dry eye symptoms with eye-related allergy symptoms, making it difficult for patients to find consistent relief. How to Tell the Difference Between Dry Eye and Allergiesĭry eye syndrome and ocular allergies are two of the more common eye conditions people deal with each day.
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