Allergic Conjunctivitis: Symptoms, Cause and Home Remedies

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when eyes come into contact with an allergen (a substance that causes allergies) like smoke, dust, pollen, animal hair, feathers etc. Individuals who are more susceptible to allergies are at an increased risk of developing allergic conjunctivitis.

Allergy is a long-term problem
Avoid triggering factors such as dust
Follow medication prescribed by eye doctors only

Symptoms

Redness in the white of the eye and inner side of the eyelid
Increased amount of tears
Irritation
Itching of the eyes
Ropy discharge from the eyes

Do’s and Don’ts

Avoid exposure to dust
Contact lenses which are worn must be removed
Plain glasses can be worn for protection
Hands and eyes must be washed
Use ice packs on eyelids to reduce itching.
Avoid touching or rubbing the affected eyes

What causes allergic conjunctivitis?

You experience allergic conjunctivitis when your body tries to defend itself against a perceived threat. It does this in reaction to things that trigger the release of histamine. Your body produces this potent chemical to fight off foreign invaders. Some of the substances that cause this reaction are:

household dust
pollen from trees and grass
mold spores
animal dander
chemical scents such as household detergents or perfume

Some people may also experience allergic conjunctivitis in reaction to certain medications or substances dropped into the eyes, such as contact lens solution or medicated eye drops.
In allergic conjunctivitis both eyes tend to be equally affected at the same time.

Only anti-allergic medications should be used as instructed by your eye doctor.
Steroid eye drops may be used after consulting and under the strict supervision of a registered eye doctor. Self-medication with steroids may cause an elevation in the pressure of the eye which may result in glaucoma and eventually irreparable vision loss.

Home Care:

Treating allergic conjunctivitis at home involves a combination of prevention strategies and activities to ease your symptoms. To minimize your exposure to allergens:

Close windows when the pollen count is high
Keep your home dust-free
Use an indoor air purifier
Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, dyes, and perfumes

To ease your symptoms, avoid rubbing your eyes. Applying a cool compress to your eyes can also help reduce inflammation and itching.

Note:

You should see a doctor if you are uncertain what is causing your symptoms and the symptoms do not settle within a few days. Also, see a doctor urgently if any of the following occur:

Your symptoms change (for example, the light starts to hurt your eyes).
You have pain in the eye (mild soreness rather than pain is usual with conjunctivitis).
Spots or blisters develop on the skin next to the eye, or on your eyelid or nose.
Your vision is reduced.The eye becomes very red - in particular if it is on one side only.