Allergies affect millions of Americans each year. While some never experience a single allergy, others rarely get a moments relief from allergies. Allergies can also strike a person who’s never experienced them, and suddenly leave a person who’s had allergies their whole lives.

What Causes Allergies?

Allergies can be caused by any number of things, including certain food such as nuts, shellfish or dairy; seasonal allergens from trees, pollen and weeds. Other sources include pet dander, latex, and insects.

What Are the Symptoms of Allergies?

Symptoms can include:

• Itchy, watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Wheezing
• Itchy skin
• Rash
• Headache

Why the Itchy Eyes?

If all the sneezing and congestion aren’t enough, itchy, watery eyes make it very difficult for people to function.

When your body comes in contact with an allergen, it produces a chemical called histamine. In the eyes, histamines simulate the nerves, making your eye itchy and watery so that it removes the allergen.

This also causes your eyes blood vessels to dilate, making your eyes red. All this combined can make it difficult to see and focus. If you experience these symptoms, try an eye drop for some relief. Your symptoms will last as long as the allergen is around, so if you have seasonal allergies, your itchy eyes may continue for weeks.

How Can I Avoid Allergy Symptoms?

You can avoid allergies by limiting your exposure to the things you’re allergic to.

• Keep your windows closed in the house and car.
• Wear a face mask if you must be outside for long periods of time doing yard work or exercising.
• Remain inside on especially windy days.
• Wash bedding and curtains often. Don’t hang them outdoors to dry.
• Shower at night to avoid transferring pollens onto your bedding.
• Vacuum frequently and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
• Install a HEPA filter in your house.
• If you have an outdoor pet, bathe in frequently or start keeping it inside.
• If cigarette smoke triggers allergies, be sure to avoid restaurants and bars that allow smoking.

How Do I Relieve My Allergies?

There are many ways to relieve allergy symptoms. Antihistamines and decongestants can relieve itchiness and congestion. Eye drops can relieve itchy, watery eyes. Be careful of over the counter nasal sprays as they can cause a physical dependency, making you need more and more.

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/default.htm