Ocular Allergies
Ocular allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the eyes react to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. These reactions can happen seasonally, similar to hay fever, or year-round if you’re exposed to certain triggers. Allergies can also be caused by direct contact with allergens on the eye or the surrounding skin.
Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis
There are several forms of allergic conjunctivitis, each with different triggers and severity:
Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (Hay Fever): The most common and mild type, usually occurring during specific seasons.
Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis: Occurs year-round, often triggered by allergens like dust mites or pet dander.
Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis: Associated with skin allergies, it is chronic and can be severe.
Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: Typically begins in childhood or adolescence and can be chronic and severe.
Signs & Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of ocular allergies is itching. Other symptoms include:
Watery eyes with a stringy discharge
Red or pink eyes due to inflammation of the conjunctiva
Swelling or puffiness of the eyelids and conjunctiva
While allergic conjunctivitis is generally common and not sight-threatening, more severe forms, such as vernal and atopic keratoconjunctivitis, can lead to serious complications. It's essential to see an optometrist for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment
After consulting with your optometrist, the treatment plan will depend on the severity of your allergic reaction:
Anti-Allergy Eye Drops: The most common treatment, these drops are safe and effective, and unlike oral antihistamines, they don’t cause drowsiness.
Cool Compresses and Preservative-Free Eye Drops: Often recommended to soothe the eyes and reduce inflammation.
Stronger Anti-Inflammatory Drops: In cases of severe allergies, your optometrist may prescribe these, or they may refer you to an allergy specialist ophthalmologist for further treatment.
Key Points to Remember
Ocular allergies are a common cause of itchy, red eyes.
Most cases are mild, but severe forms can lead to complications.
It’s important to consult with an optometrist to determine the severity and appropriate treatment.