One of the most common, treatable eye diseases in adults and children is conjunctivitis, often referred to as pink eye. It is the inflammation of the of the eye’s membrane surrounding the eye white and inner eyelids

Conjunctivitis can be infectious or non infectious and is usually caused by viral or bacterial action, but it can also be caused as the result of an eye allergy, in which case it is known as allergic conjunctivitis, and this kind of eye condition is non contagious.

Signs of Allergic Conjunctivitis.

a). An increase in the quantity of tears.

b). Inflammation and redness of the white of the eye and inner eyelids.

c). Swelling of the eyelid.

d). Itching eyes and blurred vision.

If any of these symptoms continue, then it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist, who is both an eye doctor and a surgeon), treatment will be recommended following an examination to diagnose the exact nature of the eye allergy.

The allergic pink eye may disappear after initial treatments with an anti-histamine, or by identifying and removing the source of the offending allergen.

Treatment of Allergic Conjunctivitis.

Topical Ocula Anti-histamines. These medicines are typically histamine blockers which is chemical agent which causes the symptoms of the allergy, they are readily available over the counter and will reduce any swelling, redness and itchiness.

Topical Ocular Decongestants. By controlling the number of small blood vessels in the conjunctiva these medicines will reduce the eye redness causing the allergic pink eye. Too much of theses kind of medicines can nave a ‘rebound’ effect and worsen the symptoms, so long term use is not recommended.

Topical Ocular Steroids. If other treatments have not been successful the eye doctor may recommend the use of steroid medication under his/her direct supervision to relieve the symptoms of the allergy, since they can increase the pressure within the eye with the associate risk of glaucoma. The doctor will also check for any eye viral infections like herpes prior to using steroid medicine.

There is a medicine named Cromolyn which prevents specialized cells from releasing histamine but it works best if started before the allergy symptoms appear, immunotherapy may also be considered as the treatment, such allergy shots have proven to be effective against allergic pink eye.

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