Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis
La allergic conjunctivitis It is an alteration that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye due to the body's reaction to an allergenic factor. The conjunctiva is the thin, transparent tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids and the sclera, the white part of the eye structure.
Unlike bacterial conjunctivitis and viralThis is not contagious and occurs when the eyes come into contact with an allergy-causing agent, such as pollen, mites, bushes, ragweed or grass, among others. Treating it is essential to prevent complications and stop the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis
La allergic conjunctivitis It is an alteration that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye due to the body's reaction to an allergenic factor. The conjunctiva is the thin, transparent tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids and the sclera, the white part of the eye structure.
Unlike bacterial conjunctivitis and viralThis is not contagious and occurs when the eyes come into contact with an allergy-causing agent, such as pollen, mites, bushes, ragweed or grass, among others. Treating it is essential to prevent complications and stop the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
What is allergic conjunctivitis?
An allergy is a reaction that the body's immune system presents to a specific factor and that does not affect most people equally. Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye caused by a reaction of the immune system to an allergen.
When the conjunctiva is inflamed, the blood vessels are more visible and that is why the eyes take on an intense red color. Allergic conjunctivitis is very common, in fact affects 25% of the population, and is more common in children than in adults.
Allergic conjunctivitis can be acute, intermittent, or chronic. Unlike bacterial and viral conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.
How do I know if I have allergic conjunctivitis?
When allergy occurs, the immune system unleashes the release of histamine and other substances that are responsible for the symptoms of allergies. The symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are:
- Intense itching In the eyes.
- Red eyes due to the dilation of the capillaries.
- Tearing excessive.
- Sensitivity to light or photophobia.
- Secretion whitish or yellowish.
- Eyelid edema because of fluid retention.
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis and medical examination are usually enough to diagnose this disease. During the ophthalmological examination we explore the eyes with a slit lamp to detect the following signs:
- Eosinophils, white blood cells.
- Small balls or bumps on the conjunctiva and on the inside of the eyelid.
- Presence of eyelid edema.
In case the patient does not know the allergenic factor that has triggered the conjunctivitis, it is important perform topical allergy tests to detect its cause. In most cases, it is recommended that the patient complements the ophthalmological visit with a allergist doctor to carry out the pertinent tests and evaluate the need to prescribe a special treatment.
Once allergic conjunctivitis is diagnosed it is important treat your symptoms to avoid discomfort and improve the quality of life of the patient. In most cases, allergic conjunctivitis is treated with:
- Antihistamine eye drops.
- Artificial tears.
- Topical and oral anti-inflammatories.
- Oral antihistamines.
During the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis important avoid rubbing or scratching your eyesas this can worsen conjunctiva inflammation and eye redness.
Eye cleaning plays a fundamental role in calming the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Necessary cleaning the eyes with saline solution at least 5 times a day and with hands previously disinfected with soap and water.
Some tips for treating allergic conjunctivitis are:
- Keep them closed windows and avoid the use of air conditioning.
- Avoid outdoor activities.
- wear sunglasses as long as it goes outside.
- Use cold compresses to relieve discomfort.
- If you are allergic to pollen it is important do not air dry clothes and avoid going out during the days with the highest concentration of pollen in the environment.
- If you are allergic to dust mites it is important keep home clean, avoid the use of curtains, stuffed animals and rugs, clean air conditioning filters every week and vacuum the home daily with a vacuum cleaner instead of a broom.
