Spring has sprung, flowers are blooming, farmers are tilling, pollen is spreading and eyes are suffering.  Tis the season of Allergic Conjunctivitis.  Allergy eye symptoms include redness, wateriness, and above all itchiness.  Here are a few options for relief:

1.  Artificial Tears - These can be purchased without a prescription.  Use of these drops can help clear allergens that have settled in the eyes.  Chilling artificial tears in the refrigerator can help reduce inflammation and redness.  Try to avoid "gets the red out" formulations, as these can lead to increased redness with continued use.
2.  Over the Counter Allergy Medications - These can be found in both oral and eye drop formulations.  Care should be taken when choosing oral medications as some may cause drowsiness or have potential harmful interactions with prescription medications.
3.  Prescription Allergy Eye Drops - These may be the most effective form of treatment.  Complete relief from itch can sometimes be achieved with just one drop daily.  Prescribing limitations do exist for women who are pregnant or nursing and for children under the age of two.

You don't have to suffer another day from eye irritation caused by allergies!  Feel free to contact me with any questions.  Dr P