Allergic Conjunctivitis: A Comprehensive Guide to Eye Allergies

Allergic conjunctivitis is a common eye condition that occurs when the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inside the eyelids, becomes inflamed due to an allergic reaction. This reaction is usually triggered by airborne allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander, which come into contact with the eyes. There are several treatment options for allergic conjunctivitis at the asthma & allergic disease clinic, depending on the type and severity of the condition. 

To learn more about allergic conjunctivitis, scroll down! 

What are the types of allergic conjunctivitis?

There are several types of allergic conjunctivitis, including:

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC): Caused by seasonal allergens like pollen and mold.

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC): Caused by year-round allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold.

Contact allergic conjunctivitis: Caused by contact lenses, eye makeup, or other substances that come into contact with the eyes.

Acute allergic conjunctivitis: A sudden, severe onset of allergic conjunctivitis symptoms.

Chronic allergic conjunctivitis: Long-term, persistent allergic conjunctivitis symptoms.

Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC): A severe form of allergic conjunctivitis caused by contact lenses or other foreign bodies.

Atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC): A severe, chronic form of allergic conjunctivitis associated with atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Mixed allergic conjunctivitis: A combination of seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis.

What causes allergic conjunctivitis?

The causes of allergic conjunctivitis can be divided into two main categories: seasonal and perennial.

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis:

• Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
• Mold spores

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis:

• Dust mites and their waste products
• Pet dander (especially cats and dogs)
• Insect allergens (e.g., cockroaches)
• Mold spores (indoor and outdoor)
• Feather allergens (e.g., pillows, bedding)

Other causes:

• Contact lens use (especially with poor hygiene)
• Eye makeup and cosmetics
• Certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, antihistamines)
• Infections (e.g., viral, bacterial)
• Irritants (e.g., smoke, wind, chemicals)
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes
• Environmental factors (e.g., climate, humidity)

What are the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis?

The symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Redness and swelling of the conjunctiva
• Itching, burning, or grittiness in the eyes
• Excessive tearing or watery discharge
• Stringy or thick discharge
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye fatigue or heaviness
• Puffiness or swelling of the eyelids
• Increased sensitivity to irritants like smoke or wind
• The feeling of something being in the eye (foreign body sensation)
• Discharge that may be clear, white, or yellowish
• Eye discomfort or pain
• Swollen or tender eyelids
• Crusting or scabbing on the eyelids
• Eye rubbing or scratching, which can lead to further irritation

In severe cases, allergic conjunctivitis can also cause:

• Corneal ulcers
• Vision loss
• Chronic inflammation
• Scarring
• Increased risk of eye infections

Symptoms can vary in severity and may be bilateral (affecting both eyes) or unilateral (affecting one eye). If you experience persistent or severe eye symptoms, consult an eye care professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

How is allergic conjunctivitis treated?

Treatment for allergic conjunctivitis typically involves a combination of self-care measures, medications, and avoidance of allergens. Here are some common treatment options:

Self-care measures:

• Flush eyes with artificial tears
• Apply a cold compress
• Avoid rubbing eyes
• Keep eyes clean
• Avoid sharing makeup or makeup brushes

Medications:

• Antihistamine eye drops (e.g., diphenhydramine)
• Mast cell stabilizer eye drops (e.g., cromolyn sodium)
• Steroid eye drops (e.g., prednisolone)
• Anti-redness eye drops (e.g., tetrahydrozoline)
• Oral antihistamines (e.g., loratadine)
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots)

Avoidance of allergens:

• Identify and avoid specific allergens
• Use HEPA air purifiers
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours
• Wear sunglasses outdoors
• Avoid strong fragrances or chemicals

Additional treatments:

• Warm compresses for blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction
• Topical antibiotics for secondary infections
• Cyclosporine eye drops for severe cases
• Immunomodulatory therapy for chronic cases

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage symptoms and prevent long-term damage. If you experience persistent or severe eye symptoms, consult an eye care professional for proper evaluation and care.