What can be mistaken for allergic conjunctivitis?

Overview

Red, itchy, or watery eyes are not always indicative of allergic conjunctivitis. This condition, characterised by inflammation due to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander, can resemble several other eye issues. Understanding the differences is crucial for appropriate treatment.

What is allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis arises when your eyes react to environmental allergens.

Common symptoms include:

1. Itching and watery eyes
2. Redness in both eyes
3. Swollen eyelids
4. Clear, watery discharge

It typically occurs during the spring or summer, or immediately after exposure to allergens.

Conditions Similar to Allergic Conjunctivitis

Many other eye issues can display similar symptoms.

Viral conjunctivitis (pink eye)

• This common infection is often associated with colds and flu.
• Watery discharge and red eyes
• Typically starts in one eye, then spreads to the other
• Usually accompanied by a runny nose or sore throat

Key distinction: it is contagious.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

• This results from a bacterial infection.
• Thick yellow or green discharge
• Eyelids may be stuck together, especially in the morning
• Typically begins in one eye

Requires antibiotics; antihistamine drops won’t be effective.

Dry eye syndrome

This occurs when your eyes fail to produce sufficient tears.

• Burning or gritty feeling
• Mild redness and itching
• More common among older adults or frequent users of screens

Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)

This involves inflammation around the edges of the eyelids.

• Red, crusty eyelids
• Burning or irritated feeling in the eyes
• Flakes may be found around the eyelashes
• Could occur alongside dry eye

Contact lens irritation

• Often results from prolonged wear or a reaction to contact lens solution.
• Redness, discomfort, and watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Improvement is noticed after removing the lenses

Chemical or environmental irritation

• Caused by exposure to smoke, chlorine, cleaning sprays, or air pollution.
• Red, watery, and irritated eyes
• Symptoms manifest quickly after exposure

A simple breakdown to help tell the difference

GP-recommended treatment for allergic conjunctivitis

Simple measures can alleviate eye irritation caused by allergies.

• Avoid known allergens as much as possible
• Utilise cold compresses and saline rinses
• Consider antihistamine or lubricating eye drops (with guidance from your GP)
• Maintain clean hands and follow good contact lens hygiene practices

When to see a GP

Seek medical attention if symptoms are unclear or continue.

• Symptoms persisting beyond a week
• Eye pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light
• Thick discharge or sticky eyelids
• Uncertainty between allergies or infection
• Recurrent or worsening redness

How Hola Health can assist

Expert care is accessible online from the comfort of your home. The online doctors at Hola Health can:

• Evaluate your symptoms via an online GP consultation
• Prescribe antihistamine or antibiotic drops if necessary
• Refer you to an eye specialist if required

Schedule an online GP consultation with Hola Health for personalised recommendations and treatments for your eye irritation.

Conclusion

Not all cases of red, itchy, or watery eyes can be attributed to allergies; many conditions resemble allergic conjunctivitis and demand different treatments. If you’re uncertain, promptly seeking medical advice can enhance recovery and safeguard your eye health. An efficient GP consultation can help you regain clarity and improve your well-being more quickly.

FAQ

How can I determine if my conjunctivitis is allergic or infectious?

Allergic conjunctivitis is characterised by severe itching and clear discharge, while infectious types often produce thicker discharge and may begin in one eye.

Can allergic conjunctivitis impact just one eye?

It generally affects both eyes, but early symptoms may occasionally start in one.

Is allergic conjunctivitis contagious?

No. Unlike viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, it cannot spread from person to person.

Can I use contact lenses if I have allergic conjunctivitis?

It’s advisable to avoid lenses until the symptoms have subsided and your GP has given the go-ahead.

How long does allergic conjunctivitis last?

The duration can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on allergen exposure and treatment methods.