Although bacterial conjunctivitis is the most common form of this condition, spring the cases of allergic conjunctivitis increase notably. This pathology occurs when the membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and the eyes’ surface, known as the conjunctiva, becomes inflamed due to an allergen in the eye. As with any other allergy, this condition occurs because our body reacts with an exaggerated defense against this foreign invader, unleashing the main symptoms of this condition. What to do then in this condition? At FastlyHealwe, explain in detail the symptoms and treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, as well as some recommendations to prevent it or prevent it from getting worse.
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Why do I have allergic conjunctivitis?
Allergic conjunctivitis is a prevalent condition in spring, when pollen, dust, and humidity in the environment increase, giving rise to many allergens that can affect the most sensitive people. It occurs commonly in those who suffer from other conditions typical of this season, such as pollen allergy, asthma, or allergic rhinitis.
This type of conjunctivitis occurs when a foreign agent enters the eye. Our immune system sends its defenses to fight it; only it does so in an exaggerated way, which causes a reaction of redness, inflammation, and tearing due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva. The most common causes of allergic conjunctivitis are:
- High presence of pollen in the environment.
- Contact with dust mites.
- The increased presence of animal hair, especially if there are pets at home.
- Increase in fungi due to higher humidity in the environment.
- Adverse reaction to cosmetics or certain medications, such as antibiotics.
These types of allergens tend to strongly affect people who are sensitive to them, while others do not feel their effect.
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis usually occurs seasonally, usually in spring. However, it may be chronic in some specific cases, which often happens when we are in environments with high dust or pet hair. This condition usually affects both eyes, although it can occur in only one.
Its most common signs are:
- Redness of the eyes
- A burning sensation usually accompanies intense itching.
- Inflammation of the eyelids, especially when waking up.
- Lacrimation and eye discharge.
- Sensitivity to light.
- The sensation that we have something inside the eye.
Treatment for this condition
As with any allergy, the best way to quickly treat and recover from allergic conjunctivitis is to stay away from any environment that could make the condition worse. Places with a lot of dust, humidity, mold, and outdoor spaces during the pollination season will only make the picture worse.
To treat allergic conjunctivitis and relieve symptoms, you can:
- Apply cold compresses to the area with your eyes closed. This will help reduce inflammation of the eyelid and improve discomfort.
- The sterile saline solution applied to the room with gauze is ideal for cleaning the eye and relieving discomfort. You can clean the area 3 times a day.
- The eye drops will help keep the site moisturized, reducing itching and burning.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines are great for lowering general allergy symptoms, including allergy symptoms. However, it is essential to choose one that does not dry out the eyes, a side effect of most of these medications.
- If none of these solutions work, it is best to visit an ophthalmologist to receive a treatment based on antihistamine drops, acting directly in the area and improving the condition.
If you have allergic conjunctivitis, avoid …
- Rubbing or scratching your eyes will only increase inflammation and discomfort.
- Apply other common home remedies for conjunctivitis to the area, such as chamomile. In the case of allergic conjunctivitis, these types of solutions will not work and could make the problem worse.
- Use cosmetics as a base, concealer, eyelash mask, or cream for the eye contour. It is best to keep the area completely clean.
- Avoid spray products like air fresheners, hairspray, deodorants, etc. Your eyes are sensitive, and these could cause discomfort.
Tips to prevent this condition
To prevent allergic conjunctivitis, it is essential to:
- Keep our home and workspace free of dust. It is recommended to clean every week and remove dust thoroughly using a vacuum cleaner.
- Avoid having any carpet, stuffed animals, or curtains at home, as these surfaces accumulate a large amount of dust.
- It is recommended not to ventilate the house on windy days, as pollen and dust particles can enter the home. In the same way, it is convenient to sleep with the windows closed.
- On days when there is a lot of pollen, it is advisable to avoid walks in the open air, trips to the field, or staying out for a long time. Between 5 and 10 am and from 7 to 10 pm, more pollen is concentrated in the environment, so we must avoid being outside during those times of the day.
- If you have vision problems, it is advisable to wear glasses instead of contact lenses during the most allergy season.
- In the car, use the air conditioning and avoid going with the advantages open.
- Poorly ventilated environments where dust or cigarette smoke is concentrated should be avoided.
If you have any questions or concerns, always go to an ophthalmologist.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.