Allergies or allergic diseases are known to almost every human being on this planet earth, Almost 20% of human population suffer from an allergic reaction at some point in a lifetime. Runny nose, rashes and itchy eyes are the most common symptoms that you are suffering from some kind of allergy.

Introduction of Ocular allergies

Ocular allergy means inflammation or even redness of conjunctival surface due to immunological changes induced by some allergen. And it happens because of the raised levels of mast cells in the tissues of the surface area which in return causes allergic reaction. When the combination of mast cells, eosinophils and lymphocytes get involved or interacts with immunoglobin E, the allergy caused can be of severe kind and hence in this case the probability of corneal participation is high.

Types of Ocular allergies and Reasons behind them!

1. Seasonal Allergic conjunctivitis: It is one of the most common types of ocular allergy and happens because of the reaction to the ragweed pollen and related allergens which are generally found due to change of season.

2. Perennial Allergic conjunctivitis: It is a type of seasonal ocular allergy but can happen again and again due to a specific allergen in the environment.

3. Vernal conjunctivitis: It happens when the seasonal ocular allergy becomes chronic. Though it is not a very common type of allergy but can be seen in children. It is a severe kind of ocular allergy and can cause substantial itching and redness in eyes of the children.

4. Giant Papillary conjunctivitis: It basically happens because of irritation or hurt caused by wearing contact lenses or by any surface debris which can cause bumps or papilla inside the lids.

5. Contact Dermatitis: It is rare but can happen as a serious reaction to an allergen which can cause flaky, itchy and scaly skin on face and on even eyes. Regular itching can make it worse.

Treatment

The treatment of the ocular allergy depends upon the type of the allergy a patient is suffering from. Surface allergies such as contact dermatitis can subside by cool compresses but it is the initial step to cure it, for further treatment oral medication is required. For oral treatment antihistamine, vasoconstrictors and mast cell stabilizers provide best results but in severe cases patanol and pataday can be used for quick relief. For very severe reactions patient can be put on steroids for better results but no medication should be taken without consulting the allergy doctor as there are chances of side effects.