Allergic Conjunctivitis

Alternate Names : Atopic Conjunctivitis, Hay Fever Conjunctivitis

What are the treatments for the condition?

Using nonprescription antihistamine eye drops can help some symptoms. In more difficult cases, prescription medications can be used. These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drops such as ketorolac, prescription antihistamine eye drops, such as olopatadine or emedastine, or low-dose steroid drops such as loteprednol or fluorometholone. Oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, loratadine, or fexofenadine may also help. Allergy shots may help desensitize some people. These are given by an allergy specialist. Topical anesthetic such as tetracaine drops should not be used. They damage the cornea. Contact lenses become hard to wear during episodes of allergic conjunctivitis. Sometimes cool compresses will ease symptoms.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Antihistamine eye drops should be used sparingly. The drops should be used no more than 4 times a day. If corticosteroid eye drops such as loteprednol or fluorometholone are used, an eye doctor should be seen periodically. Long-term use can carry the risk of a rise in the pressure inside of the eye. It may also lead to cataracts, or a clouding of the lens of the eye.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Since this condition is related to exposure to allergens it is usually chronic, seasonal, and tends to recur. Therefore, at the sign of symptoms, treatment should be started again.

How is the condition monitored?

Most people are able to monitor their allergic conjunctivitis independently. If medications are used frequently, periodic checkups with a healthcare provider are advised.