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Allergic Conjunctivitis: Overview
Allergic conjunctivitis is the most common type of eye allergy. It occurs when the membrane covering the eye (the conjunctiva) becomes inflamed, causing itchy, red or watery eyes. There are two common types of allergic conjunctivitis: seasonal allergic conjunctivitis and perennial allergic conjunctivitis.
Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis occurs only during certain seasons and affects more people than perennial allergic conjunctivitis.
Perennial allergic conjunctivitis persists throughout the year. The symptoms are similar to seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, but they are usually milder.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Causes
Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by exposure to common allergens such as dust, mold, animal hair, pet dander and pollens. When these allergens come in contact with the surface of the eye, an allergic reaction occurs, releasing histamines that cause itching, redness or watering.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Symptoms
The most common symptom of allergic conjunctivitis is itchy eyes. Other symptoms may include redness, swelling, watering or tearing.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Treatment
Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis includes the use of antihistamines, decongestants and anti-inflammatory agents. These are available as both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications.
Itchy Eyes: Treatment
Itchy eyes, the most common symptom of allergic conjunctivitis, can be effectively treated with Zaditor antihistamine eye drops.
Available OTC in original prescription strength, Zaditor relieves itchy eyes caused by allergens within minutes. And, unlike many OTC eye allergy treatments that last only 4-6 hours, Zaditor provides up to 12 hours of eye itch relief with just one drop so you don't need to re-dose throughout the day.
Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis: Overview
Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis commonly occurs during the spring and fall when trees and plants pollinate. It's caused by allergens such as grass, tree and weed pollen.
Perennial allergic conjunctivitis occurs year-round. Allergens that cause perennial allergic conjunctivitis include dust, mold, animal hair and pet dander.
Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis: Symptoms
Seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis both cause itchy, red or watery eyes.
Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis: Prevention
One of the best ways to reduce the severity of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is to check the pollen count before going outside. Pollen count measures how much pollen is in the air, and it's usually higher in the morning.
Other ways to reduce seasonal allergens include:
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Shutting doors and windows to keep allergens out |
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Running the air-conditioning to filter allergens from the air |
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Staying indoors when the pollen count is high |
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Avoiding lawn work if possible |
There are also ways to reduce allergens that cause perennial allergic conjunctivitis, including:
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Vacuuming carpets weekly |
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Keeping pets out of bedrooms |
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Installing hardwood floors instead of carpeting—carpets collect allergens such as dust |
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