ARTICLE BY: Dr. Lisa Pray

Allergies are a growing problem for Canadians with 20-30% of the population affected, and predictions that 50% of the population will be affected within ten years. Allergies occur when the body produces antibodies to a seemingly harmless substance such as pollen, dust, or mold. These antibodies trigger an inflammatory reaction where the body produces histamine and other mediators that normally occur only when our bodies fight infections. It is this inflammatory response that causes us to experience allergy symptoms – itchy, watery, red eyes, runny nose, etc. Allergies may occur seasonally during summer and fall when pollen counts increase, or perennially if the allergen is always present (ie dust). Pollen counts for London ON can be found at http://www.theweathernetwork.com/pollenfx/poyxu

The development of red, itchy, watery eyes as a result of allergies is called allergic conjunctivitis. There are several treatments your optometrist can suggest to help alleviate your ocular symptoms. If you have very mild allergic conjunctivitis with minimal symptoms, sometimes allergen avoidance, OTC artificial tears, and cool compresses can adequately control symptoms. It is important to not rub your eyes even though they may itch as this will increase inflammation, and worsen the allergic response. When allergic conjunctivitis becomes more severe, some will get adequate relief from oral OTC antihistamines. Unfortunately, when used frequently, these antihistamines dry the surface of your eyes, and can lead to increased ocular irritation. In these cases, prescription topical drops are a better treatment option. The most commonly used drop is an antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizer called olopatadine. Steroid drops may also be used in more severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis; however, they are generally used on a short term basis due to potential side-effects associated with chronic use.

If you suffer from itchy, red, watery eyes on a seasonal or perennial basis, you may have allergic conjunctivitis. Discuss treatment options with your optometrist.

Dr. Lisa Pray is a practicing optometrist in London Ontario’s East London Optometry.