Eye-related symptoms accompany many different types of allergic and nonallergic conditions (including viruses and bacterial infections). They are among the most common symptoms associated with seasonal allergies and other types of allergic reactions.

Some of the most common eye-related symptoms associated with allergies include:

• Watery eyes. Tears help lubricate the eyes and wash away foreign bodies and particles. However, in some cases the eyes produce excessive amounts of tears or drain improperly. Eyes can water for many reasons, including the presence of allergies. Other sources of watery eyes include blocked tear ducts or irritation due to various factors (e.g., dryness, foreign bodies).
  
  
• Itchiness and burning. Histamine and other chemicals released during an allergic reaction produce these symptoms. Viral and bacterial infections also can cause these symptoms, as can exposure to pollutants such as cigarette smoke or industrial pollution.
  
  
• Redness. A healthy eye should have red blood vessels that are visible. However, chronic and excessive redness is a sign that the eyes are irritated, possibly by an allergy. Other factors, such as excessive coughing, also can cause this symptom.
  
  
• Black circles around the eyes. Sometimes known as “allergic shiners,” they are the result of constant rubbing and scratching of the skin, which causes a darkening effect.
  
  
• Light sensitivity (photophobia). This is an inability of a person to tolerate light, especially bright light. It may be related to allergies or a more serious condition, such as uveitis, dry eye or cataract.
  
  
• Swelling of the eyelid.

Eye-related symptoms may indicate a condition that requires immediate emergency care. Other symptoms may need less immediate attention from a physician.

A person should call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical care from an ophthalmologist for the following symptoms:

• Any type of penetrating injury
• Headache coupled with blurred vision or confusion
• Nausea and vomiting associated with eye pain and blurry vision

A person should schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist if experiencing the following symptoms:

• Eye redness longer than one to two days
• Eye pain and/or vision changes
• Presence of objects in the eye
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Yellow, greenish or excessive discharge from the eye

Patients taking anticoagulants should also contact their physician when eye-related symptoms develop.