Allergic Conjunctivitis
The common term frequently used for conjunctivitis is "pink
eye." However, this term is only properly used to refer to
conjunctivitis which is caused by a viral infection of the eye.
What we will target here is allergic conjunctivitis, its causes,
and some treatments.
Allergic conjunctivitis is caused when the mast cells (part of
the body's immune system) in the eye react to allergens which
the body's immune system deems to be foreign to one's body.
There is a large number of mast cells in the eyes, which makes
them a common location for these types of allergic reactions.
The allergic reaction causes a release of histamines, which is
the immune system's way of counteracting the allergen. What
follows is enlargement of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva
(a thin membrane which covers the white of the eye and the
inside of the eyelid).
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis may include, but are not
limited to, slight swelling of the area around the eyes,
redness, itching, and tearing (crying). One may also experience
nasal symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and
itching. While other forms of conjunctivitis may affect only one
eye, the allergic form generally manifests itself in both eyes.
There are five different types of allergic conjunctivitis. These
are:
1. Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC): This is the most
common type of the five listed here. It usually occurs when the
seasons change and is caused by airborne allergens such as tree,
weed, and grass pollens, as well as many different types of
mold. Quite often those who suffer from this eye affliction also
have allergic rhinitis, also know as "hay fever." This is often
the source of SAC.
This form of allergic conjunctivitis can be treated with
over-the-counter (OTC) medications, as well as prescriptions.
2. Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis (PAC): PAC can occur
year-round and is frequently cause by pet or animal dander, dust
mites, feathers, and other like substances. Although this form
of conjunctivitis can occur all year long, the symptoms may be
more severe during seasonal changes. The symptoms are very
similar to those of the seasonal form.
Again, this type of allergic conjunctivitis can be treated by
OTC and prescription medications. One may also avoid pet/animal
dander and feathers to lessen the chances of "attacks." The use
of an air purifier indoors can also provide relief from
irritants which may cause this allergic reaction.
Although untreated bouts of seasonal or perennial allergic
conjunctivitis rarely lead to long-term complications, they can
cause serious problems with other parts of the eye. One can
develop an inflammation of the iris, or colored part, of the
eye. Please seek appropriate treatment for both of these
3. Vernal Conjunctivitis: This a chronic form of conjunctivitis
which occurs most frequently during the spring and fall seasons.
It can cause permanent damage to one's vision, making it one of
the two most dangerous forms of allergic conjunctivitis.
Vernal Conjunctivitis is more likely to occur in males than
females, and has both allergic and non-allergic forms. An
eye-care speciaist who also specializes in allergies should be
able to pinpoint and treat this form of conjunctivitis most
effectively.
4. Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis: This is a form of allergic
conjunctivitis which is associated with atopic dermatitis (also
known as eczema) of the eyelids and face. The symptoms include
those of seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis, as well
as a stringy or ropy discharge from the eyes.
This form of allergic conjunctivitis first manifests itself most
frequently in persons in their teens and early 20's. It may also
occur in persons who have a history of allergies, especially
allergic rhinitis and/or asthma.
As with Vernal Conjunctivitis, Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis left
untreated can cause permanent damage to one's eyes.
5. Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis: This form of allergic
conjunctivitis is most frequently associated with the use of
contact lenses. It is believed to be caused by an allergic
reaction to proteins which may adhere to the surface of the
lenses, prosthetic devices used for the eye, or sutures used in
eye surgery.
The indications of this form of allergic conjunctivitis can be
bumps which occur on the insides of the eyelids. It may also
have non-allergy related causes.
These last three types of allergic conjunctivitis are best
treated by an eye-care specialist. It is not advisable to treat
these with any OTC products unless so advised by your physician.
In fact, it is best to consult a physician or specialist before
treating any eye affliction with O-T-C medications. While they
may provide short-term relief, it is not always wise to treat
one's eyes without first knowing the exact cause of the allergic
conjunctivitis, and the most effective and safest form of
treatment. Misuse of OTCs can cause other eye ailments or damage
which may or may not be reversible. So always consult the
appropriate health care professional before treating yourself.