What Is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when allergens such as pollen, pet hair or dust mites irritate the clear layer of mucous membrane that surrounds the eye. Those who suffer from allergy eyes can experience any or all of the following symptoms: itching, redness, tearing, burning, swelling of the inner eyelids, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, a scratchy feeling or a sensation of something in the eye.

What Treatment Is Available?

Allergy medicines such as antihistamine tablets and nasal sprays are not designed to treat allergic conjunctivitis. Although non-prescription eye drops may temporarily relieve your symptoms, after three or four hours their effect tends to wear off and long term use may cause reddening of the eyes. Prescription allergy eye drops will likely treat allergy eyes more effective than any other treatment. Talk with your eye care professional at Shanbom Eye Specialist about whether a prescription eye drop may be right for you.