Allergies Health Center
Allergy Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis is one of the most common and treatable eye conditions in children and adults. Often called "pink eye," it is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and helps keep the eyelid and eyeball moist.
Viruses, bacteria, irritating substances (shampoo, dirt, smoke, pool chlorine), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or allergens (substances that cause allergies) can all cause conjunctivitis. Pink eye caused by bacteria, viruses, or STDs can spread easily from person to person but is not a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly; allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.
It is important to find out whether your pink eye is caused by allergies or infection because each condition has different treatments. This article focuses on allergic conjunctivitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Allergic Pink Eye?
Symptoms of allergic pink eye include:
- Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid
- Increased amount of tears
- Itchy eyes
- Blurred vision
- Swelling of the eyelid
See your ophthalmologist (a doctor and surgeon who is trained to treat eye conditions), optometrist (doctor trained to treat eye conditions), or family doctor if you have any of these persistent symptoms.
How Is Allergic Pink Eye Treated?
Allergy-associated pink eye may disappear completely, either when the allergy is treated with antihistamines, or when the allergen is removed. Your doctor may recommend you use one or more of the following:
- Ocular (topical) decongestants: These medicines reduce redness by constricting small blood vessels in the eye. They are not recommended for long-term use. Using these drops for more than a few days can actually worsen symptoms.
- Ocular (topical) antihistamines: These medicines reduce redness, swelling, and itching by blocking the actions of histamine, the chemical that causes these symptoms of allergy. They are available both over-the-counter and by prescription.
- Ocular (topical) steroids: When other medicines fail, your doctor may prescribe steroid eye drops to relieve the symptoms of conjunctivitis. These must be used with the supervision of your doctor since they can cause elevated pressure inside of the eye, which can lead to vision damage. Your doctor also must check for viral eye infections, such as herpes, before optical steroids are used. These drops can also increase the risk of cataracts, clouding of the lens of the eye that can impair vision.
- Cromolyn: This medicine works by preventing specialized cells from releasing histamine. It works best when started before symptoms occur.
- Immunotherapy : Allergy shots can be effective for treating pink eye due to allergies.
How Can I Relieve Symptoms of Allergic Pink Eye?
To relieve symptoms of allergic pink eye:
- Remove contact lenses, if you wear them.
- Place cold compresses on your eyes.
- Try nonprescription "artificial tears," a type of eye drop that may help relieve itching and burning (Note: Other types of eye drops may irritate the eyes and should not be used). Do not use the same bottle of drops in the other eye if it is not affected.
The best defense against allergic pink eye is a good offense: try to avoid substances that trigger your allergies.
WebMD Medical Reference
Allergies Guide
