The conjunctiva is a thin, clear layer of tissue that covers the white portion of the eye as well as the inside of the upper and lower eyelids. Allergic conjunctivitis is a welling of this tissue that results from an allergic response. Symptoms may range from slight to severe, depending on how reactive the individual patient is to the cause of the allergy. A slight seasonal allergic conjunctivitis may create no more than mild itching without discharge, while a severe allergic conjunctivitis may cause a reaction so great that the eye is swollen shut.
Depending on the severity of this condition, treatment may include anti-inflammatory antihistamine and decongestant solutions or ointments. Allergic conjunctivitis is more prevalent during the spring and fall when more pollens are present in the air. Patients are urged to report symptoms as soon as possible since this condition is relatively easy to treat in the early stages of the inflammation.
