Types of Eye Allergy
There are several types of eye allergy.The type of eye allergy depends on the kind or the nature of the allergen. The different types of eye allergy are perennial allergic conjunctivitis, seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, atopic keratoconjunctivitis, vernal allergic conjunctivitis, medication reactions, contact lens allergy, contact eye allergies and toxic papillary reactions are some of the most common type of eye allergies.
Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis
It occurs throughout the year and can be caused by both indoor and outdoor allergens like house dust mites, per dander and other indoor allergens. When you have this kind of allergy, your eyes become mild itchy, watery and red.
Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis
This kind of allergy occurs during a particular season of the year. When you have this, your eyes become watery,red, and itchy. Persons affected also have burning sensation and eyelid swelling. During summer, it is caused by grass and tree pollens. In fall, it is caused by weed pollen. This kind of eye allergy is also called as “hay fever eyes” or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.
Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis
It is one of the most severe forms of eye allergies. People with eczema are more prone to it. The common symptoms of htis are continuous itching and dry eyes, sometimes followed by blurred vision.
It is also called eczema eyes and if not treated can lead to corneal swelling and conjunctival scurring.This allergy is quite rare and is seen in older people.
Vernal Conjunctivitis
It is a severe form of seasonal eye allergy and is mainly seen in children and youngsters. The eyes become itchy, red and watery and is painful, and the eyes also become sticky due to a discharge and are hard to open. The inner membranes of the eyelids swell and conjunctiva has charge in appearance. It should be treated immediately as it can lead to corneal damage.
Medication Reactions
Eye allergies can be caused by the intake of certain medicines. Conjunctival swelling and itching are the common reactions. The reactions occur immediately and can vary from mild to severe. Examples of medicines that can trigger eye allergies are anesthetics, bacitracin, topical penicillin and sulfacetamide.