Swelling or puffiness under the eyes could be a result of several causes.

They include aging, water retention, allergies, heredity, etc.

Medically called Periorbital puffiness, it results from excess fluid in the tissues surrounding the eyes.

The puffiness might also accompany various other symptoms, making it uncomfortable.

Since the treatment of the condition depends on the cause of the puffiness, it becomes necessary to diagnose it.

This article will discuss puffy eyes due to allergies, their symptoms, and how to diagnose them.

How do allergies cause puffy eyes?

On exposure to substances that might cause an allergic reaction, your body releases a chemical called Histamine.

Histamine causes allergy symptoms in a person’s eyes, throat, nose, lungs, skin, or digestive tract.

It causes the blood vessels in the soft tissue around the eye area to puff up.

This leads to the eyes becoming red, teary, and itchy very quickly. 

Swollen eyes vs Puffy eyes
Swollen eyes and puffy eyes are often used interchangeably. But they are not the same.

Swollen eyes are a response to inflammation due to allergens, injury, or infections.

Puffy eyes correspond to swollen eyelids due to fluid retention, lack of sleep, genetics, etc.

Some of the reasons that might lead to puffy eyes have been discussed here.

Also Read:How to Get Rid of Puffy Eyes from Allergies: A Complete Guide

Allergens

Allergens that might cause puffiness of the eyes may differ for different people.

Seasonal allergies or allergic reactions are examples of the same.

A reaction to food, chemicals, or any other allergens may also trigger allergies.

Some common allergens that cause fluid retention under the eyes and sinuses include:

  • Dust
  • Mold
  • Pet dander
  • Pollen
  • Tree nuts
  • Wheat

Allergic Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a common eye condition among people with oily skin, rosacea, or dandruff.

Seasonal allergies might cause chronic cases of Blepharitis.

Acute cases of Blepharitis might be caused by hypersensitivity to new medications, cosmetics, pet dander, etc.

It involves inflammation of the eyelids.

This condition typically affects children and adults of both sexes equally.

Apart from puffy eyes, symptoms of Blepharitis include red, itchy eyes that might look crusted and greasy.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the eye surface is a common cause of puffy eyes.

Allergic Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the lining of the eye.

It could be classified into two types:

  • Seasonal Conjunctivitis- induced typically by exposure to pollen
  • Perennial Conjunctivitis- triggered by allergens

Symptoms

kid will swollen eye
swollen eye

Puffiness around the eye (periocular area) could be due to allergies or infections.

In both cases, the following additional symptoms often accompany puffy eyes due to allergies.

  • Itching or scratching sensation
  • Watery eyes
  • Redness of the eyelid
  • Eye discharge
  • Obstructed view
  • Dryness of the eyelid or flaking 
Warning
You must visit a doctor if puffy eyes due to allergies:

  • Becomes severe and/or persistent
  • Is accompanied by itching, redness, or pain
  • Affects other parts of the body, like the legs
  • Exams and Tests

    A doctor can help you to diagnose the underlying causes of your puffy eyes. 

    Your doctor might recommend one or more of the following tests:

    • Blood test
    • Allergy tests
    • Skin testing
    • Imaging tests
    eye checkup
    Doctor consultation

    This might help your doctor formulate the most suitable treatment plan for you.

    Takeaway

    Puffy eyes, due to allergies, could be extremely irritable.

    They might be caused due to allergens, Allergic Blepharitis, or Allergic Conjunctivitis.

    Symptoms like watery eyes, redness, discharge, etc., often appear along with puffiness of the eyes.

    Diagnosing the reason behind your puffy eyes is important to find a suitable treatment plan.

    Therefore, consult your doctor to get the best advice.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What to do about puffy eyes from allergies?

    Your doctor might recommend a cold compress, eye drops, eye creams, antihistamines, etc., to treat puffy eyes due to allergies. The treatment will be based on the cause of your condition. Read Effective Ways to Tackle Puffy Eyes from Allergies: A Complete Guide.

    Why do allergies make your eyes puffy?

    On coming in contact with substances that might cause allergic reactions, your body releases histamine. It causes allergy symptoms in the eyes, nose, skin, throat, lungs, and digestive tract, which include puffy eyes.

    Can pollen allergies cause puffy eyes?

    Yes. Allergens like pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, etc., can trigger an allergic attack. This attack might lead to puffy eyes, watery eyes, redness, discharge, etc.

    How long do puffy eyes last from allergies?

    Puffiness due to allergies might take up to a week to subside. In the meantime, follow your doctor’s instructions. If the swelling doesn’t go down in a week, inform your doctor immediately.

    Citations:
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