“Rubbing Your Eyes Can Even Damage the Cornea”: Autumn Alert for Allergic Conjunctivitis [Health Talk]

[Financial News] When their eyes become itchy and bloodshot, people often dismiss it as simply being tired. However, if these symptoms recur as autumn begins, the cause is more likely to be allergic conjunctivitis than eye fatigue.
Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammatory condition that develops when the conjunctiva—the membrane covering the whites of the eyes and the inner surfaces of the eyelids—is exposed to specific allergens and reacts excessively. In autumn, common triggers include weed pollen, mold spores and house dust mites. As the daily temperature range widens and the air becomes drier, the tear film becomes unstable and the eye surface more sensitive, often making symptoms more pronounced.

The most characteristic symptom of allergic conjunctivitis is intense eye itching that is difficult to tolerate. Both eyes may become itchy and bloodshot at the same time, with tearing or sticky discharge. Other symptoms include watery eyes, conjunctival redness, swollen eyelids, a foreign-body sensation and burning. In severe cases, sticky eye discharge or sensitivity to light may occur. People who also have other allergic conditions, such as allergic rhinitis or atopic dermatitis, may experience more severe conjunctivitis symptoms and require particularly careful management.
When symptoms appear, it is better to apply a cold compress than to rub the eyes. Artificial tears can also help wash away allergens remaining on the eye surface and relieve symptoms. If symptoms persist or recur, patients should have the cause and condition evaluated by an ophthalmologist and receive treatment with eye drops such as antihistamines or mast-cell stabilizers.

To prevent allergic conjunctivitis, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly after going outdoors and avoid rubbing your eyes. Contact-lens wearers should clean their lenses carefully and switch to glasses while symptoms persist. Wearing protective glasses or sunglasses outdoors can also reduce direct contact between allergens and the eyes. Frequently washing bedding and curtains is recommended to reduce exposure to allergens such as house dust mites and mold.
Woo Sang-eon, a professor of ophthalmology at Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, said, “Allergic conjunctivitis usually passes mildly, but if left untreated, it can lead to complications such as corneal damage. If symptoms recur or persist, it is important to see an ophthalmologist.” He added, “Rubbing your eyes because they itch can cause scratches on the cornea or worsen the symptoms, so you should avoid doing so.”
 

[email protected] Medical Specialist Jung Myung-jin Reporter