SEECA - Specialty Eye Care - Houma, LA
 
 
 

Allergic Conjunctivitis

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

  • Allergic conjunctivitis is an irritation of the conjunctiva of the eye caused by an allergen.

What are the symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis?

  • Itching
  • Watery discharge
  • History of allergies
  • Chemosis - swelling (or edema) of the conjunctiva
  • Red and edematous eyelids
  • Conjunctival papillae - inflamations inside of the conjuctiva associated with infection. 

How can I avoid contracting Allergic Conjunctivitis?

  • Patients should try to identify and avoid the allergens that cause your symptoms.

How is Allergic Conjunctivitis treated?

  • Avoidance of the allergan. 
  • Cool compresses several times per day.
  • Topical drops depending on the severity.

Mild: Artificial tears four to eight times per day.

Moderate: Vasoconstrictor/Antihistamine. Be aware of rebound vasodilation after prolonged use.

Severe: Mild topical steroid for one to two weeks.

  • Oral antihistamine in moderate-to-severe cases can be very helpful.

What is the follow-plan for Allergic Conjunctivitis?

  • Patient should return to eye doctor in two weeks.
  • If topical steroids are being used, patients should be followed up weekly, and the steroids slowly tapered.