Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC) and Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis (PAC) are the most common types of allergic conjunctivitis, affecting up to 40 per cent of the population.
In fact, it is estimated that out of all people who experience eye allergies, about 98 per cent will be affected by SAC and PAC. Spring and summer, as the air fills with pollens from trees, grasses and flowers, are particularly challenging for sufferers of SAC.
For example, 97 per cent of children who have hay-fever also suffer from allergic eye symptoms. Additionally, in children with asthma, 56 per cent experience allergic eye symptoms and 33 per cent of children with eczema also have allergic eye symptoms.
Eye allergies occur when mast cells release histamine and other chemicals in response to an offending allergen. This triggers inflammation resulting in itchy, red, and watery allergic eyes.
Most drops for eye allergies have antihistamines to block the affect of the histamine…
Rubbing itchy eyes only makes the symptoms worse as the mast cells release more of the chemicals. Instead, to maximise comfort, contact lenses should be removed, eye make up avoided and cool compresses applied to their eyes. Additionally, sufferers of eye allergies should consider medications.
Most drops for eye allergies have antihistamines to block the affect of the histamine; mast cell stabilisers to prevent the release of chemicals such as histamines that cause inflammation and decongestants. Decongestants shrink blood vessels in the eye, which decreases redness.
Oral antihistamines and decongestants can also help relieve the symptoms of eye allergies, however, oral antihistamines can cause the eye to dry and some drowsiness.
While there are many over the counter options for eye allergies, more serious cases can require prescription medications including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug eye drops and steroid-based eye drops. In some cases, immunotherapy can be successful.
Reference
1. Virtual Medical Centre.com
