Why Are my Eyelids Swollen?

Allergies afflict approximately 50 million children and adults in the US. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, a runny nose, congestion, and other unpleasantries that make life more challenging than it has to be. Allergies also cause numerous ocular effects, including burning, red, watery eyes and puffy, swollen eyelids.

When allergic conjunctivitis strikes, our ophthalmologists are here to help you find relief through our various personalized treatment strategies in Tuscaloosa, AL. So don't suffer the annoyance of swollen eyelids and the accompanying unpleasantries; get in touch today to help alleviate your symptoms at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa!

Why are my eyelids swollen?

Swollen eyelids are often a sign of eye allergies, which shouldn't cause serious concerns in terms of ocular health. But their effects can seriously detract from your quality of life. It can also be needlessly difficult to focus at school, work, the gym, or anywhere else when your eyes are itchy, watery, and irritated.

Additionally, the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis can match those of other ocular conditions, so it's always one's best bet to seek a professional consultation — not only for peace and mind and to help protect your long-term wellness but to explore our effective treatment strategies tailored to your specific needs.

For example, by evaluating your unique health and lifestyle, we can ascertain what triggers your allergic response, then plan accordingly. Knowing what's causing your symptoms is an essential part of the battle against allergies, which are often kickstarted by pollen, pet dander, smoke, dust, cologne, cosmetics, environmental pollutants, or even household cleaning products.

What treatment options are available for eye allergies?

Some of the previously mentioned treatment strategies involve lifestyle modifications. Contact lens wearers are likelier to suffer, and it may be helpful to switch to disposable daily contacts because longer-wear variants may harbor allergens that accumulate with prolonged wear. Patients should also attempt to avoid offending allergens, though we understand that may not always be possible.

However, one can limit outside exposure on days when allergens are most prevalent. An air purifier may also be valuable, as it removes common allergens from the air, including pollen, dust, and pet dander. Sunglasses can also provide a simple way to keep irritants from entering the eye. To ease the annoying daily symptoms of ocular allergies, we can recommend the most effective over-the-counter eye drops or formulate a prescription.

Artificial tears are also an option. Additionally, patients can alleviate the unpleasantries by placing a warm or cool compress over the eyes. Proper hygiene habits are also integral to avoiding discomfort, and keeping the eyes clean should be a priority. Resisting the urge to rub your eyes is another vital component of cleanliness.

Find relief from allergic conjunctivitis in Tuscaloosa, AL

Ocular allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, are an inevitable part of life for tens of millions of Americans of all ages. The discomfort, including swollen eyelids, can quickly make our favorite everyday activities a chore by causing unpleasant symptoms or even affecting one's vision.

However, our ophthalmologists are eager to offer you a full range of treatment options, including eye drops and lifestyle modification strategies, for optimal results in Tuscaloosa, AL. So don't hesitate to contact us at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa to find relief!