Between 20 to 25 percent of Americans suffer from eye or ocular allergy. When it involves the mucosal membrane of the eye, this is called Allergic Conjunctivitis. Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis include redness and itching of the eyes, as well as the feeling that sand or something foreign was in the eyes. Sometimes the itching is so intense that ordinary treatment is not effective and steroid therapy is required. The term Keratoconjuntivitis refers to a more serious condition in which the cornea of the eye becomes involved as well. If that should happen a specialist must be consulted immediately. In Keratoconjuntivitis, the cornea looks dull and is irritated and painful. Ocular allergies can be seasonal or perennial. In the seasonal type symptoms are very distinct and include eye redness, itching and tearing and are often accompanied by nasal allergy and hay fever symptoms such as frequent sneezing, and runny or congested nasal passages. These conditions usually are present in the spring and fall when there is an abundance of pollens in the air. Mold spores are also common during the rainy season. In Southern California, trees pollinate from February to the end of May and grass pollinates from March until the end of November, almost nine months. Weeds pollinate from the middle of July until the end of October.
In perennial conjunctivitis, symptoms are more subdued, but are usually continuous. These patients usually suffer from allergies to dust mites and pets. Itching of the eyes is more prominent, but redness and tearing is not so sever. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and must be differentiated from viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, often called pinkeye, which is very contagious. Pinkeye, or viral conjunctivitis, happens in all seasons and symptoms include very red eyes, mucous discharge and the eye may ache, but itching is rare.
In contact eye allergy, the person is allergic to the material the contact lens is made of or the chemicals used to clean the lenses. In summary, mild cases of allergic conjunctivitis can find relief by utilizing cold compresses, topical and systemic antihistamines and decongestants. However, in persistent and severe cases, it is recommended that you consult an allergist who can diagnose the type of allergies by skin testing and then treat the cause, which leads to permanent relief.
If you have any questions regarding this article, you may contact Valencia Allergy Medical Group at 661-259-6996 and speak to a member of the friendly staff or Dr. Farhadian directly.