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Eye allergy: a common condition that requires specialised attention

Itching, redness, tearing… These are common symptoms that many people associate with fatigue or prolonged use of screens. However, in an increasing number of cases, these signs are the manifestation of a very common and often under-diagnosed condition: eye allergy.

 

It is estimated that between 15-20% of the population suffers from some form of eye allergy, and its prevalence continues to increase, especially among children, adolescents and people with other allergic diseases such as rhinitis or asthma.

What exactly is eye allergy?

Eye allergy is an inflammation of the ocular surface caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to substances such as pollen, dust mites, animal epithelia or even certain preservatives present in cosmetic products or eye drops. It mainly affects the conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the eye and the inside of the eyelids), although in the most severe cases it may extend to the cornea and compromise vision.

How does it manifest itself?

The most characteristic symptom is intense eye itching, often accompanied by:
 

• Excessive tearing
• Eye redness
• Foreign body or grit sensation
• Photophobia (light sensitivity)
• Swelling of eyelids
• Mucous secretion

 
These symptoms may appear seasonally (e.g. during spring), remain throughout the year (in cases of constant exposure to mites or animals), or even occur chronically in more complex forms such as vernal keratoconjunctivitis or atopic keratoconjunctivitis.

When is consultation required?

One of the keys to avoiding complications is not to normalise the symptoms. If itching, redness or tearing persist for more than a few days, if they recur cyclically every year or if they interfere with daily activities, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist.
 
Furthermore, if the patient has already been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis or asthma, it is very likely that he or she will also present ocular affectation, although sometimes the patient does not mention it spontaneously.
 
As Dr. Saturnino Gismero, specialist in Ophthalmology and head of the department at HC Marbella, explains:
 
“We have very effective treatments available. Early diagnosis and a personalised approach are essential to alleviate symptoms, prevent eye damage and improve the patient’s quality of life.”

What are the treatments available?

The treatment of ocular allergy depends on the type and intensity of the symptoms. There are several treatment options:
 

• Antihistamine eye drops: they relieve itching rapidly.
• Mast cell stabilisers: they prevent the release of inflammatory mediators.
• Dual-action eye drops: these combine immediate relief and prevention.
• Topical corticosteroids: for more severe cases and always under ophthalmological control.
• Immunotherapy: in patients with identified allergens, it can modify the course of the disease.
• New therapies: such as biological treatments or sustained release devices. These are under evaluation or they are used in specific contexts.

 
Moreover, it is essential to adopt an approach that considers environmental hygiene and avoidance of known allergens, as well as good patient education.

The key role of non-ophthalmic specialists

In many cases, the first contact of the patient with the healthcare system is not through the ophthalmologist, but via the family doctor, the optical-optometrist or the nursing staff. These professionals play an essential role with regard to:
 

• Identify suspicious symptoms
• Actively asking about eye symptoms in allergic patients
• Recommend basic care measures
• Refer patients to ophthalmology in persistent or severe cases

 
Timely referral avoids inappropriate use of eye drops (e.g. decongestants or unsupervised corticosteroids) and reduces the risk of complications such as corneal damage, dependence on eye treatments or progressive deterioration of visual quality.

A final message for patients and healthcare professionals

Ocular allergy is not a minor discomfort and should not be considered „normal“ during certain times of the year. If it is not properly treated, it can limit daily life, affect rest, reduce work or academic performance and, in the most severe cases, compromise vision.
 
At HC Marbella we have highly qualified ophthalmologists who are experts in ocular allergy and can help you recover your visual comfort with safe, personalised treatments.

 

Seeing well, without itching or discomfort, is possible.

Look after your eye health! – 952 908 538

Dr. Saturnino Gismero
Head of Service – Ophthalmologist – Retinologist

 

 

April 30, 2025

 

 

 

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