Dr. Todd Winbigler 939 W. Beacon St. Boise, Id.  83706 (208) 344-8758
Allergies If you suffer from itchy, red or watery eyes, allergic conjunctivitis may be the cause. Many people experience eye irritation caused by common things in the environment such as dust and pollen from weeds, grasses and trees.  These substances are called "allergens" and they cause the above mentioned symptoms (ocular allergies). When your body comes in contact with something it considers to be foreign, such as pollen, special cells in your eyes go on alert.  These cells, called mast cells, then release various chemical substances.  This is a protective mechanism but it does cause symptoms such as ocular itching.  Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. Prevention To prevent allergic conjunctivitis, first identify which allergens cause the symptoms.  Stay indoors when the pollen count is high and/or when the weather is windy.  Vacume to lift pet hair and combat dust mites on a regular basis. Treatment Cold compresses are helpful for swollen, puffy eyes. Keeping the eyes well lubricated helps with comfort. We do not recommend Visine or Murine products as they are full of preservatives. Medical treament If you find that over the counter antihistamines and the above treatments are insufficient in preventing or combating allergic conjunctivitis, it may be necessary to consider medical treatment to relieve your itchy, red, watery eyes. Dr. Winbigler has years of experience dealing with these specific issues and is licensed in the state of Idaho to prescribe both oral and topical medications.  Today there are numerous prescriptions drops, gels and orals that quickly alleviate ocular symptoms of allergy and are safe to use with contact lenses. When you see Dr. Winbigler for these types of problems, they are considered medical visits.  We will be happy to submit to your major medical insurance for you!