Allergic conjunctivitis

Question 1

Includes

Answer 1

Vernal (hay fever) conjunctivitis

and

Contact hypersensitivity reactions

Question 2

Treatment—vernal (hay fever) conjunctivitis

Answer 2

Tailor treatment to the degree of symptoms.

Antihistamines (oral) may be required

• but symptomatic measures usually suffice.

Sodium cromoglycate 2% drops, 1–2 drops per eye 4 times/d.

Topical antihistamine/vasoconstrictor, include:

• antazoline/naphazoline and
• levocabastine 1 drop/eye bd

Topical steroids in severe cases

Artificial tears may give adequate symptomatic relief.

Question 3

Treatment—contact hypersensitivity

Answer 3

Withdraw the causative agent (e.g. cosmetics, topical eye agents).

Apply normal saline compresses.

Treat with naphazoline or phenylephrine if necessary.

If not responding, refer for possible corticosteroid therapy.