The frequent term often used for conjunctivitis is “pink eye” However, this expression is only properly used to refer to conjunctivitis that’s brought on by a viral infection of the eye. What we will aim here is contagious conjunctivitis, its causes, and some remedies. Allergic conjunctivitis is due when the mast cells (part of the body’s immune system) from the eye respond to allergens that the body’s immune system must be foreign to a person’s body.
What is happening?
There’s a high number of mast cells in the eyes, making them a frequent location for these sorts of allergic reactions. The allergic reaction triggers a release of histamines, that is the immune system’s way of counteracting the allergen. What follows is enlargement of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva (a thin membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelid). Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis may include, but aren’t limited to, minor swelling of the region around the eyes, itching, redness, and tearing (crying).
One can also experience nasal symptoms like congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itching. While other types of conjunctivitis may affect just one eye, the allergic form usually manifests itself in the eyes. There are five distinct kinds of allergic conjunctivitis.
Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC)
This is the most common sort of the five listed here. It normally happens when the seasons change and is caused by airborne pollutants like shrub, weed, and grass pollens, in addition to many diverse kinds of mold. Quite often those who suffer with this eye affliction have allergic rhinitis, also know as “hay fever.” This is frequently the origin of SAC. This kind of allergic conjuntivitis may be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, in addition to prescriptions.
Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis (PAC)
PAC can happen year-round and can often cause by animal or pet dander, dust mites, feathers, and other like substances. Although this kind of conjunctivitis can happen all year long, the indicators may be more severe during seasonal fluctuations. The symptoms are extremely similar to those of the seasonal kind. Again, this kind of allergic conjunctivitis can be treated by OTC and prescription drugs. One can also avoid pet/animal dander and feathers to lower the odds of “attacks” Using an air purifier indoors may also offer relief from irritants which might cause this allergic response. Although untreated bouts of seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis infrequently cause long-term complications, they could lead to serious problems with other areas of the eye. One can create an inflammation of the iris, or colored part, of the eye.
Vernal Conjunctivitis
This type of chronic type of conjunctivitis which occurs most often during the spring and autumn seasons. It can cause irreversible damage to someone’s vision, which makes it among the two most dangerous kinds of allergic conjuntivitis. Vernal Conjunctivitis is more likely to occur in males than females, and contains both allergic and non-allergic forms. An eye-care speciaist who also specializes in allergies need to have the ability to pinpoint and treat this kind of conjuntivitis most efficiently.
Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis
This is a kind of allergic conjunctivitis that’s associated with atopic dermatitis (also called eczema) of the eyelids and face. The symptoms include those of perennial and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, in addition to a stringy or ropy discharge from the eyes. This kind of allergic conjunctivitis first manifests itself most often in men in their teens and early 20’s. It can also occur in persons who have a history of allegies, particularly allergic rhinitis or asthma. Much like Vernal Conjunctivitis, Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis left untreated can cause irreversible damage to one’s eyes.
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis
This kind of allergic conjunctivitis is most often associated with the use of contact lenses. It’s thought to be brought on by an allergic reaction to proteins which might stick to the surface of the lenses, prosthetic devices used for the eye, or sutures used in eye surgery. The indications of this sort of allergic conjunctivitis may be lumps which happen on the insides of the eyelids. It might also have non-allergy related triggers. These last few forms of allergic conjunctivitis are best treated by an eye-care specialist. It’s not a good idea to treat these with any OTC products unless so advised by your doctor. In actuality, it’s wise to consult a doctor or specialist prior to treating any eye disease with O-T-C medications. While they may offer short-term relief, it’s not always sensible to deal with one’s eyes without knowing the specific cause of the allergic conjunctivitis, and also the best and safest type of treatment. Misuse of OTCs may cause other eye disorders or harm which may or might not be reversible. So always consult the right healthcare practitioner before treating yourself.