With the arrival of spring, complaints such as redness and itching in the eyes increase. This condition, caused by the eyes’ hypersensitivity to certain substances in the air, is medically known as allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is more common during the spring months, known as allergy season, due to the effect of airborne pollen. Kudret Eye Istanbul’s Ophthalmologist, Dr. Cem Selvi, shares important information about the symptoms and treatment of this condition that negatively affects the quality of life.
 
Why Do Eyes Turn Red?
Dr. Cem Selvi explains: “Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is one of the most frequent eye diseases seen in both adults and children. It occurs due to the inflammation of the thin, transparent membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the sclera, the white part of the eyes. This transparent membrane contains blood vessels that cover the sclera. The dilation of these blood vessels causes the pinkish appearance known as pink eye. Conjunctivitis can arise from various causes. Certain substances like pollen, chemicals, dust, animal dander, and mold can cause hypersensitivity in some people, leading to swelling, infection, burning, watering, itching, and light sensitivity (photophobia). The eyes’ overreaction to certain foreign substances results in allergic conjunctivitis.”
 
What Causes Allergies?
Dr. Cem Selvi provides information on the types and causes of allergic conjunctivitis: “Allergic conjunctivitis is named based on its causes and symptoms. Eye allergies caused by specific airborne substances like pollen or house dust mites that cause seasonal complaints are known as seasonal conjunctivitis. When these complaints persist year-round, it is referred to as perennial conjunctivitis. Additionally, there are conjunctivitis cases that occur suddenly and quickly due to contact with an allergen. Chemicals like eye drops, eye ointments, makeup products, and insect bites can cause acute allergies. Symptoms such as swelling, watering, itching, and redness in the eyelids can occur suddenly and intensely after contact with an allergen. Symptoms typically subside on their own about 48 hours after contact with the allergen ceases. Although rare, contact lens-induced eye allergies can also develop. Medically known as giant papillary conjunctivitis, this allergy is caused by insufficient hygiene, unsuitable lenses, and poor-quality lens solutions, and it affects about 1% of contact lens users. Additionally, a type called atopic keratoconjunctivitis exists, commonly seen in individuals genetically predisposed to allergies. This type is rare but can cause vision loss, and it often occurs in patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis. Another type of allergic conjunctivitis is vernal keratoconjunctivitis. This is especially common in warm, dry climates and is known as spring keratoconjunctivitis, often seen in boys aged 5-15.”
 
Eye Allergies Increase with Spring!
Dr. Cem Selvi explains the rise in eye allergies during spring: “Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is commonly caused by airborne pollen and mold. Different types of pollen can cause allergic reactions in different people. Various plants release pollen at different times, and the main three plant families known to cause pollen allergies are especially active in dispersing pollen into the air during spring. In our country, the most common cause of pollen allergies is grass pollen, which spreads from May to July. Molds can cause both seasonal and year-round allergies, with increased rainfall in spring and falling leaves in autumn increasing mold levels in the air. Seasonal conjunctivitis often occurs alongside other hay fever symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat. Allergic conjunctivitis can also develop due to allergens like house dust mites, animal dander, and mold, regardless of the season. When this eye allergy persists year-round, it is known as perennial conjunctivitis. These individuals often experience continuous allergic rhinitis with symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose.”
 
Dr. Cem Selvi’s Recommendations:
Dr. Cem Selvi offers some advice for protecting against eye allergies:
 
  • Consult a Doctor: Eye allergies can occur alone, alongside upper respiratory tract diseases, or with allergic skin conditions like eczema. To confirm the presence of an allergy and receive appropriate treatment, consult your doctor.
  • Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Allergies often cause itchy eyes. Resist the urge to rub your eyes, as this can cause further damage.
  • Take a Break from Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, stop using them until your doctor advises you can resume.
  • Avoid Makeup: Do not apply makeup to your eyes during this period.
  • Maintain Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently. You may touch your eyes and face without realizing it throughout the day.
  • Wear Sunglasses: If you have a pollen allergy, be diligent about wearing sunglasses. Consider them a health precaution, like a winter hat or scarf, rather than just an accessory. Wear them even if it’s not sunny, especially in spring.
  • Reduce Dust Mite Exposure: If you are allergic to dust mites, cover your bed, pillow, and comforter with special allergen-proof covers. Change your bedding frequently and wash it at temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius. Avoid carpets and rugs, especially in the bedroom, as they harbor dust mites. Do not use wool, feather, or down-filled materials. If your child is allergic to dust mites, avoid plush toys. Opt for sunny, well-ventilated rooms and maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50%.
  • Prevent Mold Growth: If you are allergic to mold, pay attention to plumbing, insulation, frames, painting, and maintenance issues to prevent mold growth.
Remember, these blog posts are for informational purposes only. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please consult a doctor.