Allergies of the eye, like all allergies, are overreactions of the immune system to foreign substances, which might otherwise be harmless.
Eye allergies often are hereditary, and occur due to processes associated with other types of allergic responses.
The primary type of eye allergy is commonly called conjunctivitis. This can be seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis. Other types of eye allergy include vernal keratoconjuctivitis, atopic keratoconjuctivitis, contact lens allergy and giant papillary conjunctivitis.
Eye allergies can be inherited and can be very disturbing in childhood. Prescribed eye drops and oral medications are commonly used to manage eye allergies.
Allergic conjunctivitis is one of the commonest forms of eye allergies. It occurs due to tiny substances such as pollen or mode pores getting in contact with the eyes making it sore, red and itchy. Allergic conjunctivitis can also be described as an eye inflammation which is caused by reaction to allergic substances like mode pores or pollen. This can affect both children and adults but it usually starts in childhood.
Common signs of general allergies include: Red, swollen or itchy eyes, watery eyes, runny nose
sneezing and coughing,
itchy nose, mouth or throat,
headache from sinus congestion.
TYPES:
Allergies can be seasonal or perennial.
TREATMENT/PREVENTION:
Avoid causal factors, get a comprehensive eye examination, eyedrops, and other medications can be given.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: [email protected]
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