Allergic conjunctivitis is an
allergic reaction on the surface of the
eyes.
It is a very common condition that occurs when your eyes
come in contact with allergy-causing substances (allergens).
Pollen and smoke are examples of allergens.
How does it occur?
The allergens may be in the air,
such as dust, fine animal hair, smoke or plant pollen. When
your eyes are repeatedly exposed to allergens, the body
reacts and produces antibodies. When allergens in the air
contact the antibodies in the eye, an allergic reaction
begins. The eye releases chemicals, including histamine.
These chemicals cause the symptoms of allergic
conjunctivitis.
What are the symptoms?
The eyes are itchy, watery and
red. Sometimes the eyes may be swollen. Both eyes are
affected unless just one eye came into contact with the
allergen, as might happen with some drug allergies.
How is it treated?
The first choice for treatment
is to avoid the cause of
allergy.
Some people need to take antihistamine tablets, especially
if they have other allergy symptoms. If you have only eye
symptoms, eye drops may be the only medication required.
These eye drops have anti-inflammatory, decongestant and
anti-histamine properties. In the acute phase however,
steroid drops may be needed for short periods of time, under
medical supervision. If exposure to an allergen is
anticipated, mast cell stabilizing drops like sodium
cromoglycate orketotifen can help in prevention.
How long do the effects last?
The symptoms of allergic
conjunctivitis will last as long as the allergen is around,
whether it is a pollen or cat dander in a carpet. People who
had allergic reactions as a child and have continued to have
them as an adult, will probably have them the rest of their
life. However, anybody may develop an allergy, including
allergic conjunctivitis, at any time in their life.
Occasionally an eye infection (bacterial conjunctivitis)
develops in addition to the allergic conjunctivitis. This
may happen because bacteria get into the eyes when they are
scratched or rubbed.
Can allergic conjunctivitis be
prevented?
Often there is no way to prevent
allergic conjunctivitis. The symptoms may be lessened by
limiting exposure to allergens. For example, avoid going
outside when pollen counts are high or when the wind is
blowing allergens through the air. Use air conditioning, if
possible, rather than opening windows. Avoid using fans in
dirty and closed spaces.
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