Allergic conjunctivitis is one of the most frequent external diseases in the ophthalmologist’s office. It can present four main forms: seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis (without corneal involvement) and vernal or atopic keratoconjunctivitis (with corneal involvement). In all of them, itching becomes the most prominent symptom, although keratoconjunctivitis involves a more severe clinical picture and may threaten vision.
Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, mainly associated with pollen, is the most prevalent form of ocular allergy among the population, especially in the spring season, coinciding with the pollination cycles of many plants. Perennial allergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is present throughout the year as it is linked to indoor allergens such as mites, animal hair or fungi. This difference in seasonality can also be seen in keratoconjunctivitis: vernal keratoconjunctivitis, typical of children, usually manifests itself every spring, whereas atopic keratoconjunctivitis, typical of adults, is maintained throughout the seasons of the year.
The important thing, in any case, is to know the type of ocular allergy that is affecting us in order to deal with it as soon as possible and thus eliminate the discomfort. Environmental measures are essential because, although they are often underestimated, non-medical treatments can be very helpful since avoiding contact with the triggering allergen is a basic point. The next step is treatment with drugs, such as antihistamines or, if these are not effective, corticosteroids (although when applied to the ocular surface they can induce alterations such as glaucoma or cataracts). Thus, a three-way collaboration between the ophthalmologist, the allergist and the patient is key to ensure that allergy does not eliminate the vitality of spring.