EYE, ALLERGY

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR EYE ALLERGY

  1. Wash Off Allergens:  First wash the pollen off the face.
    • Use a wet washcloth to clean off the eyelids and surrounding area.
    • Rinse the eyes with a small amount of warm water (tears will do the rest).
    • Then apply a cold washcloth to the itchy eye.
    • Wash the hair every night because it collects lots of pollen.
  2. Antihistamine/Vasoconstrictor Eye Drops:  Usually, the eyes will feel much better after the pollen is washed out and cold compresses are applied.  If they are still itchy or bloodshot, instill antihistamine/vasoconstrictor eyedrops (no prescription needed).  You can ask your pharmacist to recommend a brand. Use 1 drop every 8-12 hours as needed.  Avoid continuous use for more than 5 days.
  3. Oral Antihistamines:  If these measures aren't effective, your child probably also has hay fever (i.e., allergic symptoms of the nose and eyes).  Give your child an oral antihistamine, which should relieve both symptoms (see Dosage table for chlorpheniramine products).  Continue it until pollen season is over.
  4. Contacts:  Children with contact lenses may need to switch to glasses temporarily (reason: to prevent damage to the cornea).
  5. Expected Course:  If the allergic substance can be identified and avoided (e.g., a cat), the symptoms will not recur.  Most eye allergies continue through the pollen season (4 to 8 weeks).
  6. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Itchy eyes aren't controlled in 2 days with continuous allergy treatment.
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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