Allergic Conjunctivitis and Its Impact on Eye Health

Q: Allergic Conjunctivitis and Its Impact on Eye Health

Hello： Both the OCT and visual field tests are normal, and the intraocular pressure is nearly normal, so glaucoma can be ruled out for now. <br>However, regular follow-ups are still necessary. <br>The eye discomfort and pressure you are experiencing are mostly due to eye strain,

Allergic conjunctivitis

I have been troubled by allergic conjunctivitis for six months, but during this time, I have seen an ophthalmologist, and my intraocular pressure has ranged between 17-22 mmHg.
The corneal thickness was also measured and found to be about 10 micrometers less than the average.
However, I have been experiencing halos around light bulbs and rainbow halos around streetlights at night.
Both OCT and visual fields are normal.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Is this a sign of glaucoma? 2.
Is the occasional soreness and pressure in my eyes a symptom of glaucoma? 3.
I have seen rainbow halos at night and subsequently had my intraocular pressure measured by an ophthalmologist, which was still between 17-22 mmHg.
Could this be caused by elevated intraocular pressure? 4.
Could allergic conjunctivitis be causing the halos around light sources? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/31

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Both the OCT and visual field tests are normal, and the intraocular pressure is nearly normal, so glaucoma can be ruled out for now.
However, regular follow-ups are still necessary.
The eye discomfort and pressure you are experiencing are mostly due to eye strain, and since your intraocular pressure is not high, this should not be the cause.
The rainbow halo effect may be due to slight corneal edema; this phenomenon is typically associated with elevated intraocular pressure, but your levels do not indicate that.
Conditions such as conjunctivitis and keratitis can also cause rainbow halos.
Therefore, allergic conjunctivitis may also lead to similar symptoms.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2019/07/31

More Info

Allergic conjunctivitis is a common eye condition that occurs when the eyes come into contact with allergens, leading to inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. This condition can significantly impact eye health and visual comfort, especially for individuals who experience persistent symptoms.

1. Understanding Allergic Conjunctivitis: Allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by symptoms such as redness, itching, tearing, and swelling of the eyes. These symptoms can be triggered by various allergens, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. The inflammation caused by allergic conjunctivitis can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances, such as halos or glare around lights, particularly at night.

2. Impact on Eye Health: While allergic conjunctivitis itself does not typically lead to serious complications, it can exacerbate existing eye conditions or contribute to the development of other issues. For instance, chronic inflammation may lead to secondary complications like keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) or exacerbate dry eye symptoms. In your case, the sensation of halos around lights and the discomfort you experience could be related to the inflammation affecting the cornea or the tear film stability.

3. Concerns About Glaucoma: Regarding your concerns about glaucoma, it is essential to understand that the intraocular pressure (IOP) readings you provided (17-22 mmHg) are generally considered to be within the normal range. However, glaucoma can occur even with normal IOP, especially in individuals with certain risk factors. Symptoms such as eye pain, headaches, and visual disturbances can be associated with glaucoma, but they can also arise from other conditions, including allergic conjunctivitis. If you experience persistent pain or changes in vision, it is crucial to consult with your eye care provider for a comprehensive evaluation.

4. Visual Disturbances and Allergic Conjunctivitis: The halos and rainbow-like effects you observe when looking at light sources may indeed be related to your allergic conjunctivitis. Inflammation can lead to changes in the corneal surface or tear film, causing light to scatter and resulting in visual disturbances. Additionally, if your eyes are dry or irritated, this can further contribute to the perception of halos.

5. Management and Treatment: To manage allergic conjunctivitis effectively, it is essential to identify and avoid allergens when possible. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can help alleviate symptoms, and artificial tears can provide relief from dryness. If symptoms persist, your eye care provider may recommend prescription medications or allergy testing to identify specific triggers.

In summary, while allergic conjunctivitis can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances, it is unlikely to be a direct precursor to glaucoma, especially given your normal IOP readings. However, if you experience persistent symptoms or changes in vision, it is essential to seek further evaluation from your eye care professional. Regular monitoring and appropriate management can help maintain your eye health and comfort.

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