If you experience red, swollen, itchy
or watery eyes when exposed to certain substances, you could be suffering from allergic
conjunctivitis. With proper diagnosis and treatment from a qualified allergist,
you can ease symptoms and find relief.
Common
Trigger Substances
The most common trigger substances for
allergic conjunctivitis are pollen, mold spores, animal dander, dust mites as
well as chemicals in fragrances, household detergents, contact lens solutions
and medicated eye drops. There are different types of allergic conjunctivitis
including acute (which typically occurs in hay fever season) and chronic (which
can occur any time of the year).
Symptoms
and Diagnosis
The most common symptoms of conjunctivitis
allergy include red, swollen, watery and itchy eyes. The patient may experience
a burning sensation or wake up with puffy eyes. An allergist will take into
consideration several aspects including symptoms, physical condition of the eye
as well as patient’s medical history to make an accurate diagnosis. In
addition, he or she may prescribe tests such as a skin prick test to check for
allergy to particular substances or a blood serum test to check if the body is
producing certain antibodies or proteins associated with allergic reactions.
Treatment
for Effective Relief
There are numerous treatment options
for conjunctivitis allergy including
antihistamine eye drops or oral medications, eye drops to shrink congested
blood vessels, eye drops to reduce inflammation and steroid eye drops. Patients
can implement prevention strategies at home including limiting exposure to
trigger substances and environmental factors, keeping homes free from animal
dander and dust, using air purifiers and avoiding exposure to known irritants
such as harsh household cleaning agents, dyes and fragrances.
For more information, consult an
allergist or refer reputed websites dedicated to spreading awareness of allergic
conditions.
