What is allergic conjunctivitis?
Allergic conjunctivitis is a common cause of “pink eye”. It occurs when the thin, transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that covers your eyeball becomes swollen and irritated.
Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis
The most common symptom is red and swollen eyes. Other symptoms may include pain and itching, watery eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis can affect both eyes.
What causes allergic conjunctivitis?
Pink eye is caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens. It is diagnosed as allergic conjunctivitis when allergies are the cause. This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious. Some common allergens include:
- Pollen from trees, grass and ragweed.
- Animal saliva or dander (small particles on the skin released by animals).
- perfume.
- Cosmetics makeup).
- Skin medications.
- Air pollution.
- Smoke.
How is allergic conjunctivitis diagnosed?
To diagnose allergic conjunctivitis, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and health history. He or she will examine your eyes. If your doctor finds severe irritation, they may wipe (using a cotton swab) the corner of your eye to send a sample of the liquid to a lab. If your doctor determines that the cause is allergies, they may recommend allergy testing.
Can allergic conjunctivitis be prevented or avoided?
You can reduce your risk of allergic conjunctivitis by avoiding things that irritate your eyes. For example, if you are allergic to pollen from grass and trees, limit your time outdoors. Check weather reports for pollen and mold levels. Close your doors and windows. Use an air conditioner during the summer months.
If you are allergic to animals, consider not having a pet. If you are near a pet, avoid touching the animal and then your eyes. Always wash your hands and body after coming into contact with an allergen.
Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis
There are many ways to treat the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Some of the treatments include:
- Tilt your head back, close your eyes, and place a cold, damp washcloth over your eyes.
- Take an antihistamine. This is a drug that many people use when they have allergies.
- Put lubricating eye drops (sometimes called artificial tears) into your eyes.
You can buy a variety of antihistamines and lubricating eye drops without a prescription.
Along with lubricating eye drops, other eye drops can help treat allergic conjunctivitis. Some contain drugs. These medications may include antihistamines, decongestants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or mast cell stabilizers. Some drops contain a combination of these drugs. Some of these eye drops require a prescription.
As with all medicines, eye drops can cause side effects. You may feel a burning sensation and stinging when you first apply the drops. This usually goes away after a few minutes.
Talk to your doctor about the treatment that’s right for you.
Living with allergic conjunctivitis
Living with this condition can make you feel miserable for days. It can affect your attention and productivity at school and at work. It can get in the way of fun and entertainment. It can be a recurring problem if left untreated or avoided. Therefore, it is important to find out which allergen is causing your conjunctivitis. Once you know what causes it, it’s important to avoid things that can cause irritation.
Also, if you wear contact lenses, avoid wearing them when your eyes are irritated. The points of contact can make conjunctivitis worse. Wear your glasses until your eyes feel better.