Life without glasses is great
With the arrival of spring, the annual season of allergy-related problems begins for millions of people. Eye allergies, medically known as allergic conjunctivitis, are estimated to affect 15–40% of the world’s population. The most common symptoms include itching, redness, burning, and watery eyes, all of which can significantly reduce quality of life.
Spring is the highest-risk period. From March to May, tree pollen dominates, especially from birch, alder, hazel, and oak trees. March and April are among the months when patients with eye allergies most frequently seek medical attention. From May to July, the intense pollen season for grasses and cereals begins, often accompanied by severe itching and watering of the eyes. August and September then bring weed pollens, such as ragweed, and in sensitive individuals eye irritation may continue until the end of summer. In patients with allergic rhinitis, eye symptoms occur in as many as 30–70% of cases, confirming that allergies rarely affect the eyes in isolation.
“Allergy is essentially an exaggerated reaction of our immune system to substances we commonly encounter in our environment, such as pollen, dust, mold, or animals. A healthy body ignores these substances, but an allergic body is sensitive to these allergens and fights them as if they were a dangerous infection. Eye allergy occurs when an allergen enters the eyes and the immune system begins to react. This then leads to redness, burning, and watery eyes,” explains Dr. Radan Zugar, Head of Prague Eye Center.
This exaggerated reaction of the eye to an allergen causes allergic conjunctivitis, which manifests as red, itchy, and burning eyes. The eyes may water excessively, and the eyelids can become significantly swollen. Symptoms of eye allergy are usually accompanied by upper respiratory tract problems as well – sneezing, a blocked nose, or constant runny nose.
Properly selected treatment prescribed by an ophthalmologist can significantly reduce the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, especially itching, redness, and tearing, even during periods of increased seasonal pollen exposure. Clinical studies confirm that modern antihistamines, especially preparations with a dual effect combining an antihistamine action with mast cell stabilization, lead to a significant reduction in symptom intensity compared with symptomatic treatment alone or placebo.
“If a patient is already suffering from an eye allergy, they definitely should not rub their eyes. This could make the condition even worse,” recommends Dr. Zugar, adding: “After coming indoors, it is always advisable to rinse the eyes with clean cold water and use artificial tears throughout the day. These soothe sensitive eyes, wash allergens out, and moisturize and stabilize the tear film. Antihistamine eye drops, which are available over the counter in pharmacies, can also be used on already irritated eyes to reduce redness and swelling. Cold compresses are also suitable for swollen eyes, as they help relieve these symptoms.”
Experts especially recommend following these measures:
Allergies should not be underestimated. If basic measures do not help, or if pain, severe redness, or a purulent discharge appears, it is essential to seek an eye doctor. Long-term or severe inflammation can lead to complications and, in extreme cases, even to more serious vision problems.
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