Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms can be very annoying and can disrupt lifestyle. This common disorder affects many individuals during the allergy season which starts in early April and lasts till end of august. However, in a few unlucky individuals the symptoms of conjunctivitis may occur all year round. In allergic conjunctivitis, the white part of the eye is irritated and this results in a number of symptoms. Some people tend to call conjunctivitis a pink eye.
Allergic conjunctivitis tends to affect both eyes at once. The condition is most commonly caused by allergens which include
Pollen, grass or ragweed
Perfumes
Chemical fumes
Air pollution or smog
Smoke
Cosmetics or fragrances
Pet dander, molds, animal hair
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include
Redness of white part of the eye (blood shot eyes)
Tearing which varies in severity
Mild pain or itching
Swollen eye lids
Tired looking eyes
Blurred vision
Discomfort when looking at bright lights or the sun
Many people complain of a foreign body sensation or a gritty feeling
In some cases, symptoms of conjunctivitis may include a white discharge which tracks along the nasal side of the eye and creates a poor cosmetic effect.
Many people wake up in the morning and discover a crust covering of the eyelids.
Why some people are more prone to allergic conjunctivitis symptoms is a mystery. However, individuals who have a history of allergies, hay fever, sinusitis or dermatitis appear to be at high risk for developing the pink eye.
For some unknown reason, individuals who wear extended wear contact lenses are also more prone to conjunctivitis.
In most cases the symptoms common on within a few minutes after exposure to the allergen. The symptoms may start off with tearing and eye redness and progress until the allergen is removed. The symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis never disappear as long as the allergen is present or the individual walks away from the exposure.
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are not life threatening and the condition is harmless. But recurrent pink eye can make life difficult and can be very irritating. One never has to rush off to the nearest emergency room for treatment of allergic conjunctivitis.
In most cases the symptoms disappear once the individual keeps away from the potential allergen. Individuals who have allergic conjunctivitis should definitely keep pets or smoke.. These two conditions commonly flare up symptons of the pink eye. In the majorioty of individuals with pink eye, simple home measures can help relieve the symptoms. this may mean using warm compresses, using artifical tears and frequently washing hands. However, there are times when the symptoms persist and thus one should see an eye doctor. Individuals who have persistent allergic conjunctivitis symptoms which have lasted for more than 5-7 days, those who have a greenish yellow discharge, fever, or extreme pain should see an eye doctor.