Services Services: Ocular Allergies Ocular allergies are a major source of discomfort and annoyance. If you have been an ocular allergy sufferer, you may dread that part of the year when you begin to experience those red, itchy, watery eyes that occur each spring (or fall), or when you visit a friends' home with pets in the house. In extreme cases, you may even have to curtail outdoor or other social activities and lose time from school or work. Approximately 20% of the U.S. population suffers from the signs and symptoms of ocular allergy. Because OTC (over the counter) medications exist, many patients don't report problems to their eye doctor. However, these OTC's frequently leave a lot to be desired. Common problems include the side effects of stinging, burning, and increased ocular redness. Patients unhappy with OTC products are often unaware that there are more efficacious, longer-acting, better-tolerated prescription products available. The first step in providing relief to the allergy patient lies in obtaining a careful history identifying when symptoms occur, how frequently they occur, and how long they last-even in the off-season. Because the allergic reaction usually dissipates after a short period of time, allergy sufferers may not ever remember to discuss these problems with their eye doctor. Our new health and medical questionnaire specifically asks questions designed to determine whether you might need assistance from eye allergy problems. New prescription medications have hit the market during the last several years that can make a marked difference in providing the allergy sufferer with relief. If you need help with this problem (or know someone who needs our assistance) make sure you ask us at your next visit. © Copyright 2004 Plaza Lane Optometry. All rights reserved. Services | Eyewear | The Doctors | Your Eyes | Promotions | Insurance | Contact Us | Home | Site Map Welcome to Plaza Lane Optometry online. Located in Santa Cruz, California, Plaza Lane Optometry offers eye care services for the entire family. Learn more about Plaza Lane Optometry and our qualified, friendly eye doctors. Need help finding something? Use our Site Map.   Hours: Mon, Wed-Fri 9:00am - 5:30pm Tue 9:30am - 5:30pm Sat 10:00am - 4:00pm Contact Info: Phone: 831- 429-2020 Fax: 831-429-2945 1537 Pacific Ave., Suite 100 Santa Cruz, CA 95060