When your eyes are exposed to substances like pollen or mold spores, they may become red, itchy, and watery. These are symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is an eye inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen or mold spores. The inside of your eyelids and the covering of your eyeball have a membrane called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is susceptible to irritation from allergens, especially during hay fever season. Allergic conjunctivitis is quite common. It’s your body’s reaction to substances it considers potentially harmful.
Symptoms:
• Red, itchy, watery, and burning eyes
• You may also wake up in the morning with puffy eyes.
Causes:
You experience allergic conjunctivitis when your body tries to defend itself against a perceived threat. It does this in reaction to things that trigger the release of histamine. Your body produces this potent chemical to fight off foreign invaders. Some of the substances that cause reaction are:
• Household dust
• Pollen from trees and grass
• Mold spores
• Animal dander
• Chemical scents such as household detergents or perfume
Some people may also experience allergic conjunctivitis in reaction to certain medications or substances dropped into the eyes, such as contact lens solution or medicated eye drops.
