If you suffer from itchy eyes, ocular allergies may be the cause. Be sure to make an appointment to see your healthcare provider. He or she will be able to diagnose your condition and discuss with you whether ELESTAT® ophthalmic solution is the right medication to relieve your ocular itching. ELESTAT® is a fast-acting, long-lasting prescription eye drop that relieves the itch and feels soothing to the eyes upon instillation. Until you talk to your healthcare provider about ELESTAT®, you may find the following information about ocular allergies helpful. What Is an Ocular Allergy? Many people experience eye irritation caused by common things in the environment such as dust and pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. These substances are called "allergens," and they can cause symptoms such as itchy eyes. An ocular (eye) allergy can happen suddenly or some time after you come in contact with the allergen. When your eyes come in contact with something your body considers foreign — such as pollen, dust, or pet dander (tiny bits of scaly skin regularly shed by pets)-special cells in your eyes go on alert. These cells, called mast cells, release various chemical substances. This is actually a protective mechanism; however, it can cause symptoms such as ocular itching. Your doctor may refer to your ocular allergy by its medical name, allergic conjunctivitis. For more about the causes of ocular itching, please visit the link on this Web site titled, What causes your itchy allergy eyes? Seasonal Allergies Seasonal allergies are usually caused by ragweed or pollen, which comes from grasses, trees, and flowering plants. The symptoms are worse when the amount of pollen in the air (called the pollen count) is high. This usually happens during the spring (grasses, trees), late summer, and autumn months (ragweed). Perennial Allergies Perennial allergies occur year-round because the allergens that cause the symptoms are always present. Some common household allergens that cause perennial eye allergies include dust mites, mold, pet hair, and pet dander. Be sure to ask your eye care professional about ELESTAT® ophthalmic solution. ELESTAT® is a prescription eye drop. To see if ELESTAT® is right for you, please talk to your healthcare provider.