Allergic conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the eyelid caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen or mold spores. When exposed to these allergens, your eyes may become red, itchy, and watery.
Conjunctiva, the membrane on the inside of your eyelid that covers your eyeball, is susceptible to irritation from allergies, especially during hay fever season. Irritation from allergies is what directly causes conjunctivitis to occur.
Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis
There are two main types of conjunctivitis, and they are very different from one another:
Acute
Acute conjunctivitis is a short-term condition that is more common during allergy season. Your eyelids suddenly swell, itch, and burn. It may also cause a runny nose.
Chronic
Chronic conjunctivitis is less common and can cause year-round symptoms. It is a more severe form of allergic conjunctivitis that may not respond to the same treatment methods.
Causes
Allergic Conjunctivitis is experienced when the body tries to defend itself from threats, such as mold spores and animal dander, histamine, potent chemicals and other allergens. Conjunctivitis is the body’s natural response while fighting off foreign invaders.
Diagnosis
The tests used to diagnose allergic conjunctivitis include:
- Allergy skin test: A test that exposes your skin to different allergens; your skin’s reaction to the allergens are examined by a physician to determine your body’s allergic reaction to specific allergens.
- Blood test: if your doctor wants to know if your body is producing proteins or antibodies to protect itself from allergens, this test is recommended.
- Eosinophils are white blood cells that become activated when you have allergies. A scraping of your conjunctival tissue may be in order to examine your white blood cells.
Treatments
This condition can be treated with medications, which may include anti-inflammatory eye drops and the over-the-counter antihistamine.
If you or your child are suffering from allergic conjunctivitis, Contact Northeast Allergy, Asthma & Immunology today to find the best treatment plan for you.
