Allergic conjunctivitis

As a result of the hypersensitivity of the immune system of the human body, certain substances - allergens, which can be plant pollen (mainly seasonal effects beginning in early spring and continuing until late autumn), dust, drugs (including eye drops), animal wool or mites - Have a harmful effect. For this reason there is inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is allergic, the disease is called allergic conjunctivitis. Its history dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, when in 1906 the Viennese pediatrician K. Von Pirke established the connection of the symptoms of the disease with the action of certain allergens (substances from the environment), among them there were some food ingredients, pollen of plants or dust.

Previously, experts believed that the mechanism of exposure to allergens is due to a violation of the function of immunoglobulins E, which they explained the development of hypersensitivity. However, it later became clear that harmful chemicals, with different mechanisms of exposure to humans, cause similar symptoms, as in cases where allergic conjunctivitis is accurately diagnosed, but the term "allergy" refers only to reactions associated with the production of antibodies to immunoglobulin E ( IgE). The disease can affect either one or both eyes.

Allergic conjunctivitis is accompanied by reddening and inflammation of a thin layer of tissue that covers the front of the eye (conjunctiva). There is reddening of the eye proteins, as well as other symptoms: itching and lacrimation, and sometimes sticking of eyelashes (if it is caused by allergies). The edema of the eyelids and the overflow of the blood of the eye vessels (hyperemia of the conjunctiva) indicate a disease such as conjunctivitis. Symptoms of it also include photophobia. In addition, the patient can torment the runny nose, frequent sneezing and stuffiness of the nose. As a result of allergic effects of eye drops (contact dermatoconjunctivitis) dryness and tenderness of the eyelids are felt. In some people, because of the allergy to wearing contact lenses, giant papillary conjunctivitis develops. Symptoms progress much more slowly, but there is a small spot on the inner side of the upper eyelid. This type of conjunctivitis is associated with a high risk of complications, so you should always seek medical advice.

Allergic conjunctivitis differs from viral, bacterial, adeno-viral or resulting from exposure to poisonous or toxic substances. Often there is an edema of the eyelids, which is insignificant, and patients thus experience severe itching. Pain in the eyes does not always feel. If the disease passes into a chronic form, then eye irritation and pruritus persist. Symptoms of conjunctivitis depend on the causes, that is, on the nature of the allergen. The same factor determines the direction of treatment. In the study, the substance that caused the problem is determined, and then the patient's impact on the patient is avoided. For treatment, antihistamines (tablets or drops for the eyes) are used.

Eye disease can greatly complicate a person's life, including allergic conjunctivitis. But in most cases it does not pose a serious threat to health. Complications are very rare. But if they occur, they are serious: a severe case of allergic conjunctivitis leads to the formation of scars in the eye. If signs of conjunctivitis are found, it is necessary to seek medical advice, especially if there are suspicions that the problems relate to the wearing of contact lenses. Also, you should immediately consult a specialist if there is pain in the eyes, photophobia (increased sensitivity to light), visual impairment, intense reddening of one or two eyes.