When your eyes are exposed to certain allergy-causing substances, inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the eyeball and the inside of the eyelid) may occur resulting in allergic conjunctivitis. Millions of Americans suffer from allergic conjunctivitis, making it the most common allergy condition of the eye.
Conjunctivitis is often referred to as “pinkeye,” and the viral or bacterial forms of conjunctivitis are contagious. However, allergic conjunctivitis is not.
Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis
There are two forms of allergic conjunctivitis. The perennial form of allergic conjunctivitis is usually caused by animal hair or dander, feathers, and dust mites. According to Clifford Bassett, MD, clinical assistant professor of medicine at the State University of New York and clinical instructor at New York University School of Medicine in New York City, the more common form of allergic conjunctivitis is seasonal, which is triggered by mold spores and pollen from flowering trees, grass, and weeds.
“Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is on the rise as a result of global warning,” says Dr. Bassett. “As greenhouse gases increase, there is an increase in pollen, especially ragweed.” Bassett also believes that “global warning is somehow making the pollen stickier,” which makes it more likely to adhere to the eyes.
Allergic conjunctivitis may also result from the presence of a foreign body in the eye, such as a contact lens or glass eye. This type of allergic conjunctivitis is known as giant papillary conjunctivitis, and typically occurs in a person who wears hard or rigid contact lenses.
Other substances that may cause an allergic reaction in the eyes include air pollutants, perfumes, cosmetics, chemicals, and smoke.
Allergic Conjunctivitis Symptoms
The most obvious symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are redness and puffiness around the eyes, which Bassett says can “become a quality-of-life issue.” To cover these symptoms, Bassett says, “Women will often apply cosmetics, which only make their condition worse.” Other symptoms may include:
- Watery eyes or increased amount of tears
- Itching or burning eyes
- Blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
Allergic Conjunctivitis Treatment Options
Bassett recommends visiting an allergist or an ophthalmologist at the first signs of allergic conjunctivitis to ensure the proper diagnosis before undergoing any treatment regimen. Discomfort can be relieved by applying cool compresses to the eyes. Bassett adds that allergy shots and prescription eye drops such as Patanol and Pataday (olopatadine hydrochloride) are very effective in relieving allergic conjunctivitis symptoms. Other treatment options include over-the-counter artificial tears and oral antihistamines.
Allergic Conjunctivitis Prevention
Since avoidance of the allergen is the best solution for allergic conjunctivitis, Bassett suggests the following steps for reducing or eliminating exposure to eye allergens:
- Remain indoors during peak pollen counts
- Wash hair and eyelids daily using a baby shampoo
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors, especially on windy days, to block pollen from your eyes
- Reduce dust mite exposure by keeping air ducts clean and using mattress covers or mite-proof bedding
- Vacation in places near bodies of water, such as lakes and oceans, which have less pollen
While allergic conjunctivitis will not cause blindness, continuing discomfort is often the prognosis. Fortunately, anyone with a history of allergic conjunctivitis may prevent future outbreaks or lessen their severity by identifying the specific allergens causing their symptoms and being diligent to avoid exposure to them. See your doctor when you first notice symptoms and get relief.