Allergic Conjunctivitis

If seasonal or chronic allergies cause eyelid swelling or watery eyes, you may have allergic conjunctivitis. The allergy specialists at Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates offer comprehensive care for children and adults with allergic conjunctivitis symptoms. In-office allergy tests are available to confirm the source of your eye irritation, and the team tailors a treatment plan to your individual needs. Call the Boulder, Lakewood, Arvada, Denver, Littleton, or Westminster, Colorado, office to schedule an allergic conjunctivitis consultation or book an appointment online today. 

What is allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis describes an eye allergy that occurs when you come into contact with an allergen, a substance in your environment that’s usually considered harmless to your health.

This contact causes your immune system to produce antibodies to defend against the substance. These antibodies trigger inflammation in the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the whites of your eyes and the inner side of your eyelids.

Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates provides diagnostic evaluations and treatments for allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children. The medical team focuses on easing your symptoms and reducing the severity of your immune system’s reaction to substances like mold, pollen, and pet dander.

How do I know that I have allergic conjunctivitis?

You might have allergic conjunctivitis if you experience occasional or chronic symptoms like:

• Itchiness
• Redness
• Grittiness
• Watery eyes
• Eyelid swelling
• Increased light sensitivity

Some people with allergic conjunctivitis also experience symptoms of allergic rhinitis at the same time. These symptoms can include nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and postnasal drip.

If you can’t manage these symptoms with home strategies, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates. 

The medical team provides in-office allergy tests to identify which substances in your environment trigger eye-related symptoms. They carefully monitor your health during testing to prevent complications in the event you experience severe allergy symptoms.

How is allergic conjunctivitis treated?

Treating existing symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis may involve oral antihistamines or medicated eye drops. You may also benefit from over-the-counter saline drops to keep your eyes moisturized.

Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates also provides immunotherapy (allergy shots) to reduce your immune system’s reaction to pollen, pet dander, and other environmental allergens. Immunotherapy doesn’t provide immediate results, but the shots can lessen the severity of your allergic conjunctivitis and allergic rhinitis symptoms over time.

The team also provides resources you can use to limit your exposure to known allergens. This may involve keeping your windows closed when pollen counts are high, showering after spending time outdoors, and using high-quality air filters in your home.

Call the Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates office near you to schedule an evaluation for symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, or book an appointment online today.