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Allergy symptoms

Conjunctivitis

•	Conjunctiva
•	Itching
•	Watery eyes
•	Allergies

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Allergic conjunctivitis

Definition

Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the tissue lining the eyelids (conjuctiva) due to a reaction from allergy-causing substances such as pollen and dander.

Alternative Names

Conjunctivitis - allergic

Causes

When your eyes are exposed to anything to which you are allergic, histamine is released and the blood vessels in the conjunctiva become swollen (the conjunctiva is the clear membrane that covers the "white" of the eye). Reddening of the eyes develops quickly and is accompanied by itching and tearing.

Allergies tend to run in families, although no obvious mode of inheritance is recognized. The incidence of allergy is difficult to determine, because many different conditions are often lumped under the term allergy. Keep in mind that rubbing the eyes makes the situation worse.

Symptoms

Symptoms may be seasonal and can include:

Red eyes
Dilated vessels in the clear tissue covering white of the eye
Intense itching or burning eyes
Puffy eyelids, especially in the morning
Tearing (watery eyes)
Stringy eye discharge

Exams and Tests

Your doctor may look for the following:

Certain white blood cells, called eosinophils, in scrapings, secretions, or discharge
Small, raised bumps on the inside of the eyelids (papillary conjunctivitis)
Positive skin test for suspected allergens (See: Allergy testing)

Treatment

This version of the Encyclopedia has no treatment information. Please discuss any and all treatment options for your condition with your healthcare professional.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Treatment usually relieves the symptoms. However, the condition tends to recur if exposure to the offending agent continues.

Possible Complications

There are no serious complications; persistent discomfort is common.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you experience allergic conjunctivitis and it is unresponsive to over-the-counter treatment.

Prevention

Prevention of allergic conjunctivitis is best accomplished by avoiding the allergen, if it is known. In many cases, however, this is impossible since the allergy-causing agents are everywhere nearly all the time.

References

Bielory L, Friedlaender MH. Allergic conjunctivitis. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2008 Feb;28(1):43-58, vi.

Review Date: 8/22/2008
Reviewed By: Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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