An eye examination by your optometrist in Cincinnati OH can reveal vision problems, cataracts, and glaucoma. It can also alert your eye doctor to systemic disease. Here are some reasons you need to visit your optometrist on a regular basis if your eyes frequently itch.
Rule Out Allergies
One of the most common symptoms of environmental allergies is itchy eyes. Your
optometrist may also discover redness and dilated blood vessels inside your eyes if you have allergies. While allergies often cause other symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, coughing, and sneezing, itchy eyes may be your only symptom. If your eye doctor believes you have allergies based upon your examination, he or she may refer you back to your primary care doctor for further evaluation and treatment. Allergies need to be recognized and addressed because if left untreated, you may develop a diminished sense of smell, blurred vision, and corneal abrasions from scratching your eyes.
Rule Out Sjögren Syndrome
Your optometrist in Cincinnati OH may suspect that you have an autoimmune disorder known as Sjögren syndrome after examining your eyes. This condition attacks the salivary glands and tear ducts and because of this, your eyes may become dry and itchy and your mouth may become dry. In addition to dryness and itching, Sjögren syndrome can also cause blurred central vision and problems with your peripheral vision. Lubricating eye drops will help relieve ocular itching and dryness, however, in severe cases, you may need oral medications.
For more information about dry or itchy eyes, call Harper’s Point Eye Associates.
