Eye Allergy
Overview of eye allergy
Classification of eye allergy
Symptoms of eye allergy
Diagnosis of eye allergy
Treatment of eye allergy
Overview of eye allergy
Eye allergy or allergic conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the thin membranes that is present around the eyes (conjunctivae). This is caused due to the overreactions of the immune system to foreign substances. Eye allergies are frequently associated with other allergic conditions like hay fever, dermatitis etc.
Drugs and cosmetics also play an important role in causing allergies. Severe allergies are often worrying condition and require visits to an ophthalmologist or allergist. Recent studies have shown high prevalence of eye allergies in developed countries.1 Very rarely, eye allergies can cause serious damage to the eye or loss of vision.
Diagnosis of eye allergy
A differential diagnosis of eye allergy can be made with eye examination. If the eye allergies are in the earlier stages and milder in form, then specific diagnosis is required to distinguish between the allergies. Diagnostic tests are essential for specific diagnosis. These include conjunctival provocation tests, IgE measurement in tears, tear film evaluation, microbial tests, conjunctival cytodiagnosis and confocal imaging.7
Treatment of eye allergy
Identifying the allergen and avoiding its contact or exposure may be beneficial to some extent, but unfortunately, not all allergens can be avoided and hence the following treatments are used in treating eye allergies.
- Using drugs like antiallergy eye drops and tablets.
- Artificial tears can be used to help to lubricate the cornea if it gets irritated and removes the allergen that gets into the eyes.
- Histamine-induced leakiness and dilation of blood vessels can be treated using topical vasoconstrictors and antihistamines.
- In severe cases of allergy, topical steroids may be suggested.
- In mild form of allergies, cold compresses are useful.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 19, 2011