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What is allergic conjunctivitis?
Allergic conjunctivitis is a condition that many people who suffer from allergies frequently experience. Symptoms include itchy eyes, red eyes, tearing, mucous production, and swelling of the eyelids. Allergic conjunctivitis can be seasonal or perennial. The seasonal condition is more common and results from exposure to allergens such as ragweed, pollen, or molds. The less common perennial condition occurs throughout the year and is usually triggered by allergens such as dust or pet dander.
What are treatments for allergic conjunctivitis?
Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis is based upon the identification and elimination of the allergens causing the reaction. Because many of the known allergens cannot always be eliminated or avoided, treatment with medications that alter the body's immune response are often used. Such medications include antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers. Antihistamines work by blocking the effect of histamine, which causes the symptoms associated with allergies. Mast cells are responsible for releasing histamine and starting the allergic response; therefore, stabilizing the mast cells will prevent the response.
Until recently, over-the-counter options for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis were limited to antihistamine-decongestant ophthalmic products containing naphazoline and phenerimine. Products available include the following: Naphcon-A®, Opcon-A®, Visine-A OTC®, and others. Although these products are effective, they are only recommended to be used short-term, which is no more than three days due to risk of side effects associated with long-term use of decongestants. Because most individuals suffer from the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis for many days, the over-the-
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