ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS

(red / itchy eyes)

WHAT IS ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

A clear, thin membrane called the conjunctiva covers your eyeball and the inside of your eyelids. If something irritates this covering, your eyes may become red and swollen. Your eyes also may itch, hurt or water. This is called conjunctivitis. It is also known as pink eye.

When an allergen causes the irritation, the condition is called allergic conjunctivitis. This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious. Some common allergens include: pollen from trees, grass and ragweed; animal skin and secretions such as saliva; perfumes and cosmetics; skin medicines; air pollution; and smoke. Viral and bacterial infections can also cause conjunctivitis.

WILL ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS DAMAGE MY EYESIGHT?

No. Allergic conjunctivitis is irritating and uncomfortable, but it will not hurt your eyesight.

WHAT CAN I DO TO AVOID GETTING CONJUNCTIVITIS?

Try to identify and avoid the allergens that cause your symptoms. For example, if you are allergic to pollen or mold, stay indoors when pollen and mold levels are high. You can usually find out when allergen levels are high from the weather report. Keep your doors and windows closed, and use an air conditioner during the summer months.

HOW IS ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS TREATED?

Several types of eye drops are available to treat allergic conjunctivitis. They can help relieve itchy, watery eyes and may keep symptoms from returning. Eye drops may contain an antihistamine, a decongestant, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), or a mast-cell stabilizer. Some drops contain a combination of these. Some eye drops require a prescription.

Antihistamine pills (which many people take for their allergies) may also help.

ZADITOR™ used to be prescription only, but is now available over the counter. This eye drop seems to be the most effective. Use it 2-3 times a day as needed. This eye drop can be used for long periods if needed.

Other drops such as OPCON-A, NAPHCON-A, and their generic equivalents are less effective, but can get the red out if used for short periods. You should not use this drop for more than 5 days at a time. If used regularly for long periods, it stops working and can actually make your eyes feel worse.

DO THESE TREATMENTS HAVE SIDE EFFECTS?

Many eye drops can cause burning and stinging when you first put them in, but this usually goes away in a few minutes. It is important to remember that all medicines may potentially cause side effects, so talk with your doctor before using any medicine, including eye drops.

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO TO FEEL BETTER?

It may help to put a cold washcloth over your eyes for relief. Lubricating eye drops (sometimes called artificial tears) may also make your eyes feel better. You can buy these drops without a prescription. Chilling the artificial tear can also give it an additional soothing effect. These drops can be used 4-6 times a day.

CAN I WEAR MY CONTACT LENSES?

It's not a good idea to wear contacts while you have allergic conjunctivitis because you might get an eye infection. Instead, wear your glasses until your eyes feel better.