Health Tip: Allergies and Your Eyes

What to do to improve symptoms

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(HealthDay News) -- Allergens such as dust, animal dander, pollution and pollen can cause allergic conjunctivitis, a non-contagious condition that results in red, watery and itchy eyes.

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The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to help prevent these symptoms:

• Try eye drops specifically made to treat allergic conjunctivitis. Some may require a prescription.
• Use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, sometimes called "artificial tears," to soothe the eyes.
• Take an antihistamine that's been approved by your doctor.
• Apply a cool washcloth across your eyes.
• If you wear contact lenses, stop using them and wear glasses until symptoms clear.

-- Diana Kohnle