Ocular allergy or allergic conjunctivitis as it’s known along medical corridors is a condition where an allergen irritates your conjunctiva. Just like any other type of allergy, ocular allergies come about when your immune system identifies an allergen and overreacts to it by producing immunoglobulin (IgE).

Causes of eye allergy

The most common causes of this allergy are seasonal allergens which include mold spores and pollen. If you are fond of developing seasonal allergies, you are bound to have eye allergies. Indoor allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander have also been found to provoke the allergy. A clear sign that you are allergic to indoor allergens is worsening of the condition when you are cleaning the house or grooming your pet.  Few people have been shown to develop the allergy when exposed to irritants such as diesel exhaust, cigarette smoke, and perfume.

Symptoms of ocular allergy

The symptoms are similar to the ones that you get when you are having other types of allergies. You will have itching sensations, redness of the eye, increased amount of tears, blurred vision and swelling of the eyelid.

How to manage eye allergy

If you suspect that you have eye allergy you should visit your allergist who will recommend some medications. There are many types of medications that you can take depending on your condition. The common medications include:

Topical decongestants: They are meant to reduce the redness of the eye by constricting the small blood vessels of your eye. It’s recommended that you apply the drops for only a short period of time.

Topical antihistamines: From their name, these are medications that aid in reducing redness, itching, and swelling. They work by blocking the action of histamine. In addition to the medications being prescribed by your doctor, you can also get them over the counter.

Steroids: They are usually the last resort after all the other medications have failed to work. Since they are powerful, you should use them under the supervision of your allergy doctor.

Other ways of managing allergic conjunctivitis

Other than taking medications there are other ways that you can use to manage the allergy. One of the most effective ways is keeping the windows closed during high pollen periods. You should also wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors. This is to keep pollen out of your eyes. To limit your exposure to dust mites, use “mite-proof” bedding covers.