Stacks Image 2266
Tijuana Eye Center

What Is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by a reaction to an allergen or foreign body. An allergen is a substance that can trigger an allergic reaction.

inflammation

In some people, the immune system considers allergens as "foreign" or "dangerous," leading the body's immune system to create an antibody called IgE to defend against the allergen. This reaction causes allergy symptoms.

Clinical Testing

The diagnosis of allergic conjunctivitis is clinical, but in some cases, various tests and examinations may be performed:

  • Eosinophil tests
  • Detection of small bumps on the conjunctiva (papillae) by everting the eyelid
  • Skin tests that show a positive reaction to a specific allergen

Signs & symptoms

  • Blurred vision, like looking through a fog
  • Slow and progressive visual loss, which may not be the same in both eyes
  • Halos and glares around bright lights at nighttime
  • Contrast sensitivity is lost, making contours and shadows less vivid.
  • Colors look faded
  • Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription Symptoms vary among individuals and geographical regions. For example, in our region of Baja California and Southern California, allergies are common. It can be seasonal or persist throughout the year, causing itching or burning, swelling, watery discharge, teary eyes, and ocular redness.

Common allergens include:

  • Pet dander and animal proteins
  • Dust
  • Fungal spores
  • Insect droppings and mites
  • Pollen

Therefore, during times of higher pollen levels in the air, such as hot, dry, and windy days, symptoms may worsen. On humid, cold, and rainy days, there is less pollen in the air, resulting in less frequent symptoms.

The effects can be reduced by minimizing exposure to the allergen as much as possible. Lubricating eye drops may be applied, and in some cases, systemic antihistamines are administered.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage of the conjunctivitis. Prevention is crucial in managing allergic conjunctivitis. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the allergen causing it to attempt to avoid it.

Exposure can be reduced in the following ways:

  • Keep windows closed and use air conditioning with filters both at home and in the car.
  • Avoid outdoor activities as much as possible early in the morning when plants release pollen and in the evening when it descends.
  • Avoid going outside on days with high pollen levels and windy conditions.
  • Dry clothes indoors, as pollen can stick to them.
  • Wear sunglasses when going outside.
  • Follow information on pollen levels available to the public on the internet.

To alleviate symptoms, one can:

  • Use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears
  • Apply cold compresses to the eyes
  • Avoid chamomile infusions, as they may contain allergenic components
  • Avoid tobacco smoke
  • Prescribe antihistamines if deemed necessary
  • In cases of severe reactions, prescribe mild steroid eye drops

Symptoms usually disappear with treatment, although they may persist with prolonged exposure to the allergen.

People with chronic allergies or asthma may experience prolonged or chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva, known as vernal conjunctivitis. In this form, there may be thick and sticky eye discharge, and severe symptoms may require short-term use of steroid eye drops along with topical antihistamines.

When to see an ophthalmologist:

  • In case of allergic conjunctivitis that does not respond to allergen avoidance
  • If experiencing vision impairment
  • In the presence of severe eye pain
  • If eyelids or the skin around the eyes become swollen or red
  • If, along with other symptoms, there is also a headache.
Key Points Summary
  • Common Condition: Allergic conjunctivitis is a frequent eye condition caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
  • Symptoms: Symptoms include redness, itching, tearing, and swelling of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye.
  • Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis: There are several types, including seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, perennial allergic conjunctivitis, and contact allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on patient history, symptoms, and may involve allergy testing to identify specific triggers.
  • Treatment Options: Treatments include avoiding allergens, using antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops, and in some cases, taking oral medications.
  • Preventative Measures: Preventative steps can include using air filters, keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, and maintaining good eye hygiene.
Stacks Image 3044

KEY

POINTS

we have everything you need

Looking for the most popular opthalmologist clinic in Tijuana? Look no further.

Tijuana Eye Center

Copyright Š 2024 Tijuana Eye Center. All Rights Reserved.Todos Los Derechos Reservados. ATENCION AL PUBLICO EN GENERAL Permiso COFEPRIS 203300201A0987 LS 17AM020040034 Responsable Sanitario Dr. Juan P. Rodriguez P. 4452528 Escuela Superior de Oftalmologia del Instituto Barraquer de America.

we have everything you need

Looking for the most popular opthalmologist clinic in Tijuana? Look no further.

Tijuana Eye Center

Back To The Top