What should you know about perennial allergic conjunctivitis?

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis is an allergic reaction on the surface of the eye. House dust mites, pet allergens, mould, or other indoor particles may trigger itching, redness, watering, and stringy discharge throughout the year. Allergic rhinitis can occur alongside it because the nose and eyes may respond to the same exposure.

Itching is a particularly useful clue, but red or watery eyes can have other causes. Rubbing can worsen irritation and may injure the eye surface, especially when symptoms are persistent.

Limit suspected indoor triggers by reducing dust, washing bedding as advised, improving ventilation, and keeping pets away from sleeping areas if they trigger symptoms. Cool compresses and preservative-free lubricating drops may soothe irritation. Do not share eye drops or use someone else's leftover treatment.

A clinician may recommend allergy medication or allergy testing when symptoms recur, affect sleep, or remain difficult to control. Contact-lens wearers should remove lenses when eyes are irritated and ask when it is safe to restart them.

Arrange an eye or medical assessment for ongoing pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, one-sided marked redness, injury, or discharge that is thick and persistent. Seek urgent care for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or swelling with breathing difficulty.

Ask whether your pattern fits allergy, which indoor triggers are plausible, whether testing would help, which drops are suitable, and how to protect the eye surface if symptoms continue.