Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis

• Red, itchy eyes
• Watery or sticky discharge that’s usually clear but can become more mucus-like in some cases
• Swelling around the eyes and eyelids, making your eye area look puffy
• Burning or stinging sensation in your eyes, leading to discomfort
• Sensitivity to bright light that can cause some individuals pain
• An uncomfortable gritty feeling in your eye, as if there is sand in there

Allergic Conjunctivitis vs. Pink Eye

Allergic conjunctivitis is not pink eye. Pink eye (also known as bacterial conjunctivitis) is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, while allergic conjunctivitis is strictly the result of your body having an allergic reaction to your environment.

While both can result in your eye becoming red and itchy, pink eye has the additional symptom of pus discharge that can create crust overnight. Pink eye is also highly contagious, while allergic conjunctivitis is not. Because of this, it can be treated more easily and quickly than pink eye. With antihistamines and eye drops, recovery time can often be reduced to just 24 hours compared to pink eye’s one to two-week treatment timeline.

How to Manage Allergic Conjunctivitis

Avoid Triggers as Much as Possible

The most effective strategy is to avoid known triggers, such as pollen or pet dander. This may include using air purifiers, keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons and regularly cleaning bedding and carpets to maintain good indoor air quality. You may try to avoid outdoor activities when pollen counts are high to limit your eyes’ exposure to allergens.

Ask Your Doctor for Medication and Allergy Management Recommendations

Effective treatment and allergy management options for allergic conjunctivitis come in a variety of forms, from over-the-counter medications and DIY remedies to prescription-strength medications or injections. These include:

• Cold Compresses: Applying a cold, damp washcloth over the eyes can help reduce swelling and provide instant relief.

• Artificial Tears: Eye drops can help flush allergens from the eyes and provide a soothing lubricant that can ease discomfort.

• Antihistamine Eye Drops: Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can provide quick relief from itching and redness. They are effective for treating symptoms but should not be used for longer than six weeks unless your doctor has approved it due to the potential for rebounding symptoms.

• Mast Cell Stabilizer Eye Drops: Mast cell stabilizer eye drops help prevent your body from releasing inflammatory chemicals during an allergic reaction. While effective at blocking inflammation, they can take three to seven days to work. Because of this, they should only be used preventatively or if you know you’re going to be in contact with allergens in the near future.

• Combination Antihistamine and Mast Cell Stabilizer Eye Drops: Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops used in combination with mast cell stabilizers are a common treatment option recommended by doctors because they provide a balance of quick relief and long-term prevention. They’re fast-acting, effective and generally well-tolerated. You should discuss with your doctor what will work best for you specifically.

• Oral Antihistamines: In more persistent cases where patients require more potent protection, such as if you live in an environment where it’s difficult to avoid certain allergens, oral antihistamines can be helpful. However, they may cause side effects like dry eyes.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

If symptoms are severe or persist despite over-the-counter treatments, it's important to seek medical advice. An allergist or healthcare provider can provide a proper diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The primary care physicians at St. Hope Healthcare are ready to help you manage allergic conjunctivitis with a customized treatment plan that provides fast-acting relief and a long-lasting solution for your seasonal allergy symptoms. Call (713) 778-1300 to schedule an appointment today.