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 conjuntivitis 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 conjuntivitis.

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 conjuntivitis 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 allegies, 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.