Allergic Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva—the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the front of the eye. The conjunctiva helps to lubricate and protect the eye from irritants. When the conjunctiva is inflamed—as in conjunctivitis—it becomes less efficient, causing redness, itching, swelling and discomfort.
Allergy is a major cause of conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye complaints. Symptoms are usually mild to moderate, short-lived and easily treated. However, severe cases can cause extreme discomfort, swelling and impaired vision. Such cases require urgent referral to an ophthalmologist.
Causes
Conjunctivitis can be triggered and aggravated by numerous allergens and anything that can irritate the eyes, including:
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dust mites, cockroaches and other insects
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pollens from grasses, trees and weeds
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mould spores
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eye drops
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contact lenses
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swimming in chlorinated pools
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soap, shampoo, bubble bath, detergents and other chemicals
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cosmetics and nail polish
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medications
Symptoms
The common symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include:
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redness, swelling, itchiness, dryness, grittiness or stinging in both eyes and surrounding tissue
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watery or mucous discharge
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inflammation of the cornea
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photophobia (sensitivity to bright light)
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cloudy or blurry vision (requires urgent review by ophthalmologist)
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pain (requires urgent review by ophthalmologist)
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scarring, if not properly treated
Depending on the allergen, allergic conjunctivitis symptoms may be perennial or seasonal.
Treatment
Depending on the cause and severity, allergic conjunctivitis symptoms can be managed and treated in a number of ways:
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managing/avoiding allergic triggers
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eye drops, lubricants and ointments
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eye baths, compresses and ice packs
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antihistamines
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corticosteroids
The first step to allergy prevention is correctly identifying the cause
