Eye allergies can be an annoying complication of seasonal changes but there’s important information that can help you treat those symptoms. An allergic reaction affecting the conjunctiva, the clear layer overlying the eye, is commonly referred to as allergic conjunctivitis. There are several subtypes/subdivisions of allergic conjunctivitis, with the most common being seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) and perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC). Both SAC and PAC are triggered by an immune reaction involving a particular allergen.
Common allergens include: pollen, grass, weeds, dust, and pet dander.
Difference Between SAC and PAC
Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis: SAC is generally associated with outdoor allergens. Because of this, problems typically last for a short period of time. Common allergy seasons include: spring (tree pollen), summer (grass pollen), and fall (weed pollen).
Perennial Alaric Conjunctivitis: PAC is generally associated with indoor allergens. Because of this, problems typically last thought the year. Common indoor allergens include: dust mites, cockroaches, and pet dander.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
SAC and PAC have identical symptoms, including:
- Ocular itching
- Redness
- Tearing
- Burning sensation
- Blurred vision / blurry vision
- Mattering and/or mucous production
Eye Allergy Treatment
If you are unable to identify or avoid the particular allergen(s) affecting you, consult your eye doctor – ophthalmologist or optometrist. He/she will help you determine the cause of your eye allergy and design a treatment plan to lessen your symptoms.
Treatment options include:
- Eliminating or avoiding the allergen(s) affecting you
- Over-the-counter medications, such as allergy eye drops and oral antihistamines
- Prescription eye drops
About 50 million Americans currently suffer from eye allergies. Are you one of them? We can help! If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Samuel Boles, Dr. Nicole Kershner Regis, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010. AAEC is staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals who will help you navigate your ocular health.
Diana larmore says
April 28, 2019 at 12:32 pmMy vision is so fuzzy I cannot read. It’s different from accuity. When I can see beyond the fuzz., I see 20/20. My prescription s for contacts and glasses are uptodate.
Dr Boles suggested that this might be allergies .
Can you recommend an OTC or a prescription eye drop?
Thank you.
—Diana
Anne Arundel Eye Center says
May 1, 2019 at 3:32 pmThank you for reaching out to us. We have contacted you directly about this. If you have any further questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 410-224-2010 where one of our patient care specialists is happy to assist you.