By Barbara Floria, Pure Matters Eye allergies affect more than
seven in 10 people with allergies. Although not contagious, this
type of eye problem can cause discomfort and aggravation to
sufferers. An eye allergy can be seasonal when caused by pollens
at a certain time of year, or year-round when caused by pets,
feathers, perfumes, or eye makeup. Eye allergies are usually,
but not always, associated with other allergic conditions,
particularly hay fever and eczema, says Joseph A. Eviatar, M.D.,
FACS, an eye surgeon in New York City. "But you don't need to
suffer with them. Medical and self-care treatments can provide
relief." Eye allergies usually affect both eyes. The main
symptoms of an eye allergy (also called allergic conjunctivitis)
include itchy eyes, increased tearing, red or pink eyes, and
mild swelling of the eyelids. "If the eye is sticky in the
morning, it's probably a bacterial infection," says Dr. Eviatar.
"If the eye burns, it's likely dry eye. If the eye itches, the
problem is probably allergi