Your First Eye Doctor Visit
Ocular allergies can affect your quality of life.1 They’re a source of stress and harm your productivity.1
Should you see an eye doctor (ophthalmologist or optometrist)? If your quality of life is affected and itchy eyes have you constantly rubbing and scratching, it’s best to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional before your symptoms get worse.
Questions your eye doctor may ask you
- Can you describe your symptoms?
- How long have you had these symptoms?
- When your symptoms happen, how long do they last?
- Do your symptoms come and go throughout the year, or do they last year-round?
- Do your symptoms occur when you’re outdoors, or indoors?
- Do they get worse when you’re around pets or other animals? Do you have pets?
- Do you smoke? Does anyone in your family smoke?
- What medications are you taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements?
- Do you have any other health conditions, like asthma or high blood pressure?
- Do you have problems with your sense of smell or taste?
- Do you feel better over the weekend and worse when you go back to work?
Having an accurate medical history and other key information will help your eye doctor make a proper diagnosis and decide on the best treatment for you.2






