Eye care

Red eye - associated with allergy - allergic conjunctivitis

Red eye is probably the most common eye complaint for which sufferers seek advice from their pharmacist or general practitioner.
The general term for redness and inflammation of the eye is Conjuctivitis. There are many causes of redness, some of which are serious conditions, so it is important that the cause of the symptoms is identified before the choice of treatment is made.

Red, watery, itchy eyes are some of the most common and widely recognised features of allergies. The eyes may feel gritty and the lids become swollen, red and tender.
Symptoms are caused by allergens, such as pollen coming into contact with the surface of the eye and triggering the release of histamine from mast cells, and the associated allergic response.

A variety of treatments are available over the counter for the prevention and treatment of symptoms, including mast cell stabilisers (eg. Sodium Cromoglycate) and antihistamines (eg. Pheniramine Maleate and Cetirizine).
Antihistamines can be taken orally (such as Zyrtec) or in the form of eyedrops.
Symptoms can also be reduced by simple measures, for example avoiding 'high allergen' environments, such as parks and gardens, wearing sunglasses to prevent pollen being blown into the eyes, and avoiding rubbing the eyes when they itch, as this can make the irritation worse.