Allergic Conjunctivitis

 

The inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue covering the white portion of the eyeball and the inside of the eyelids, is known as allergic conjunctivitis. An ophthalmologist from the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins Medicine, Sezen Karakus, M.D., explains the basics of allergic conjunctivitis.

Pollen, dust, and mold are examples of allergens and irritants that can induce allergic conjunctivitis. 

Two forms of allergic conjunctivitis can be distinguished:

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis: The seasonal form is linked to seasonal allergies, which often manifest in the spring, summer, and occasionally in the fall. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is caused by exposure to airborne allergens such as grass, pollen, and others.

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis: The year-round perennial type is typically brought on by indoor allergens such dust, mold spores, and animal dander.

Allergic Conjunctivitis Symptoms

The following are typical symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis in the eyes:

• Acute eye itching and a strong desire to touch the eyes.
• Red eyes.
• Mucous discharge that is stringy, white, or watery.
• 
  Swollen eyelashes.

Nasal symptoms like sneezing or a runny or itchy nose may accompany these symptoms.

Allergic Conjunctivitis Diagnosis

Your doctor will examine your eyes and analyze your symptoms to determine whether you have allergic conjunctivitis. 

It might be necessary to perform certain skin or blood tests to determine the precise allergen triggering your reaction.

Allergic Conjunctivitis Treatment

For allergic conjunctivitis, possible treatments include:

• Apply a cool compress. 

• Lubricants or artificial tears. 

• allergic eye drops or prescription or over-the-counter oral medicines.

• immunotherapy for allergies.

Some extra actions, like the following, could be beneficial:

• Keeping away from allergies.

• Cleaning your face after being exposed to dust or pollen, the two common environmental allergens.

• Regular laundry of clothing.

• Taking a shower or bath before going to bed.

• Changing contact solution every day and maintaining clean contact lenses and cases.

SUMMARY 

Conjunctivitis is an acute, sporadic, or chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva, allergic conjunctivitis is typically brought on by allergens in the air. Itching, lacrimation, discharge, and conjunctival hyperemia are among the symptoms. Clinical diagnosis is made. Cold compress, Mast cell stabilizers and topical antihistamines are used in treatment.