What should you know about simple allergic conjunctivitis?

Most people with allergic conjunctivitis notice intense itching, watering, redness, and puffy eyelids. Clear, stringy discharge can occur. Symptoms may flare after contact with pollen, dust, animal dander, or another trigger, and a blocked or runny nose may happen at the same time. Thick discharge, severe pain, or vision loss is less typical and should prompt a different assessment.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands after outdoor exposure, and use a cool clean compress over closed lids. Showering or changing clothes after heavy exposure may reduce allergens around the face. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on lubricating drops, allergy medication, or whether allergy testing is useful. Do not use someone else’s prescribed eye drops, and remove contact lenses while the eyes are red or uncomfortable.

Seek prompt assessment for significant eye pain, reduced vision, strong light sensitivity, injury, or swelling that affects breathing or swallowing. Arrange a review when symptoms persist, recur without a clear trigger, or produce thick discharge. A clinician can distinguish allergy from infection or another eye condition.

What trigger is most likely? Which drops or allergy medication fit my symptoms? Would allergy testing help, and how should I protect my eyes during future flares?