Ocular Allergies: symptoms, conjunctivitis, and blepharitis
Ocular allergies refer to various clinical manifestations, ranging from mild seasonal allergic conjunctivitis to severe keratoconjunctivitis, caused by an eye reaction in response to external agents (allergens). Ocular itching, swelling, and tearing are the most frequent symptoms, while photophobia and pain are typical of more severe forms.
Ocular allergies can be intermittent or seasonal — caused by allergens present during specific periods (e.g., pollen) with symptoms generally lasting less than 4 weeks — or persistent or perennial, caused by allergens constantly present in the environment such as dust mites or pet dander.
Allergic conjunctivitis: how do I recognize it?
Allergic conjunctivitis is very common, present in 10–20% of the population, and usually affects both eyes. Symptoms manifest in two phases:
- Initial phase: tearing, itching, redness, and swelling of the eyelids or conjunctiva. Itching is the hallmark of allergic eye disease.
- Advanced phase: increased secretions, photophobia, eye pain, and vision problems.
Although allergic conjunctivitis generally does not impair vision, the symptoms significantly reduce quality of life, particularly in children and adolescents.
Blepharitis: what is it and how does it manifest?
Blepharitis is an inflammatory condition of the eyelid associated with irritation, redness, swelling, and the presence of crusts. It can destabilize the tear film by altering the quantity and composition of palpebral secretions.
The most common symptoms of blepharitis include:
- Sore and sticky eyelids
- Sensation of irritation, itching, burning, and redness
- Dryness or excessive tearing
- Sensation of a foreign body in the eye
- Photophobia and contact lens intolerance
How to alleviate the symptoms of ocular allergies?
Using artificial tears several times a day helps lubricate the eye and dilute allergens. For blepharitis, an effective first approach is proper eyelid hygiene: warm compresses followed by massaging the eyelid margins with an eyelash scrub for 3–5 minutes, at least twice a day during the acute phase. Since blepharitis is chronic, it is essential to maintain eyelid hygiene even after the acute symptoms have resolved.