What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is an eye inflammation resulting from exposure to allergens. Various substances like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold can cause allergic conjunctivitis.

The types of allergic conjunctivitis include:

⬩Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (Hay Fever): This is the most common type and usually occurs during spring and fall when pollen counts are high. Exposure to pollen can cause itching, redness, watering, and swelling in the eyes.

⬩Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis: This type is often seen in people who wear contact lenses. It results from the irritation of the inner parts of the eyelids by contact lenses. Symptoms include itching, redness, and discomfort in the eyes.

⬩Atopic Conjunctivitis: This type occurs in people with other allergic conditions like eczema or asthma. Symptoms include itching, redness, watering, and swelling in the eyes.

⬩Acute Conjunctivitis: This type is caused by an infection, often due to adenovirus. Symptoms include itching, redness, watering, and yellow or green discharge from the eyes.

Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis

Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include:

⬩Itching in the eyes, which is the most common and bothersome symptom. It can range from mild to severe and may increase throughout the day.

⬩Red and inflamed appearance of the white part of the eyes and the inner eyelids.

⬩Excessive tearing and watery discharge.

⬩Mild to moderate swelling of the eyelids.

⬩Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes.

⬩Increased sensitivity to bright lights.

⬩Discharge and crusting on the eyes, especially in the morning.

⬩Runny nose and sneezing may accompany eye symptoms in some cases.

Less Common Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis:

⬩Blurred vision

⬩Feeling of a foreign object in the eyes

⬩Itchy, red, and swollen eyelids

Treatment Options for Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in children and young adults. Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis focuses on two main goals: alleviating symptoms like itching, redness, and watering using medications and other treatments, and preventing allergic reactions and reducing future symptoms by avoiding triggers and using long-term treatment options like immunotherapy.

Medications used in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis include:

⬩Antihistamine drops and ointments

⬩Mast cell stabilizers

⬩Corticosteroid drops and ointments

⬩Decongestant drops

Other methods used in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis include:

⬩Applying cold compresses to the eyes can help reduce itching and swelling.

⬩Avoid rubbing your eyes as it can worsen the condition.

⬩Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to prevent allergens from getting into your eyes.

⬩Keep your contact lenses clean and use them as recommended by your doctor.

⬩Avoid allergens whenever possible, as this can help reduce symptoms.

In the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, immunotherapy is a long-term treatment option that helps gradually desensitize your immune system to allergens, significantly reducing or eliminating symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.