Allergic Conjunctivitis: Expert Care for Red, Itchy Eyes

Evidence-based treatment for eye allergies at London's leading allergy clinic

Living with red, itchy, watery eyes can significantly impact daily life. At LACK Allergy Clinic, our expert team provides comprehensive care for allergic conjunctivitis, helping you or your child find lasting relief through evidence-based treatments and personalised care plans.

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What is allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammatory eye condition that occurs when your immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances in the environment. This allergic reaction causes inflammation of the conjunctiva – the clear, thin membrane that covers the white of your eye and the inner surface of your eyelid.



Unlike bacterial or viral conjunctivitis (pink eye), allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. It's a common condition affecting millions of people in the UK, particularly during hay fever season, though it can occur year-round depending on your specific triggers.

How allergic conjunctivitis develops

When allergens come into contact with your eyes, your body releases histamine and other chemicals as part of an immune response. This triggers inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of eye allergies. Many people who experience allergic conjunctivitis also have other allergic conditions such as hay fever, asthma, or eczema.
Common symptoms
  • Intense itching in both eyes
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Watery eyes (excessive tearing)
  • Burning or stinging sensation
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Mucus production
  • Blurred vision
  • A feeling like there's something in your eyes
Common triggers
  • Tree, grass, and weed pollens
  • Pet dander (especially from cats and dogs)
  • House dust mites
  • Mould spores
  • Air pollution and smoke
  • Cosmetics and perfumes
  • Contact lens solutions
  • Swimming pool chlorine

Impact on daily life

Allergic conjunctivitis affects people of all ages and can disrupt many aspects of daily life:

For children:
  • Difficulty concentrating at school
  • Reduced participation in sports and outdoor play
  • Disrupted sleep due to discomfort
  • Frustration with constant eye rubbing
  • Social impacts from visible symptoms
For adults:
  • Difficulty driving, especially at night
  • Reduced productivity at work
  • Challenges with computer use and reading
  • Discomfort wearing contact lenses
  • Impact on outdoor activities and exercise

When to seek specialist care

Consider consulting our team if:
Persistent eye symptoms
Impact on daily activities
Symptoms resistant to over-the-counter treatments
Associated allergic conditions
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Our expert approach to diagnosis and treatment

We believe effective treatment starts with precise diagnosis. Our comprehensive approach combines detailed diagnostic testing with personalised treatment plans to address not just your symptoms, but the underlying causes of your allergic conjunctivitis.

Comprehensive diagnosis

Advanced allergy testing to identify specific triggers
Detailed medical history assessment
Assessment of related allergic conditions
Connection to broader allergy patterns
This thorough understanding allows us to develop the most effective treatment approach for you.

Your path to relief

Once we understand what's triggering your conjunctivitis symptoms, we create a personalised treatment plan which includes:
Immediate symptom relief
Targeted antihistamine treatments
Protective eye drops
Environmental modifications
Practical comfort measures
Long-term management
Immunotherapy to address root causes
Preventive treatment programmes
Personalised avoidance strategies
Ongoing condition monitoring

Prevention strategies

Prevention plays a crucial role in managing allergic conjunctivitis. By understanding and avoiding your triggers where possible, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms. This can mean fewer flare-ups and less reliance on medications.

Our specialists will help you develop practical prevention strategies that fit your lifestyle:
Monitor pollen forecasts to plan outdoor activities
Use air purifiers to create allergen-free zones at home
Learn effective cleaning routines that reduce allergens
Choose appropriate protective eyewear for outdoor activities
Develop good hand washing habits to prevent eye irritation
These simple but effective measures can make a real difference to your daily comfort and help you maintain clear, comfortable vision.

Why choose LACK Allergy Clinic for eye allergy care?

Evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient
Cutting-edge research background
Comprehensive allergy assessment
Age-appropriate care approaches
Experienced specialist team
Flexible appointment times to suit work and school schedules
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Eczema
“As far as our family is concerned, Professor Lack is a miracle worker. We trust his advice implicitly and are very lucky to have him as our daughter’s specialist.”
Eczema
28th Sept 2024
Eczema
verified patient

Pioneering research, personalised care

Our approach combines our team's groundbreaking research into the causes and treatment of allergies with deeply personalised care. As global leaders in allergy prevention and treatment, we're dedicated to transforming lives through early intervention and innovative therapies. From food allergies and asthma to eczema and anaphylaxis, we provide evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient's needs.
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Frequently asked questions

How is allergic conjunctivitis diagnosed?
Our specialists use advanced testing methods to identify your specific triggers and develop an effective treatment plan. This process is adapted to be comfortable for both adults and children.
Can allergic conjunctivitis be cured?
While there isn't a permanent cure, our evidence-based treatments can effectively manage symptoms and potentially reduce sensitivity through immunotherapy for both adults and children.
Is allergic conjunctivitis contagious?
No, allergic conjunctivitis cannot be passed from person to person, unlike bacterial or viral conjunctivitis. You can safely work, study and socialise while experiencing symptoms.
How long does treatment typically take?
Each person's experience with allergic conjunctivitis is unique. During your consultation, we'll discuss the most effective approach for your specific situation and create a clear treatment plan.
Can I wear contact lenses with allergic conjunctivitis?
We can advise on contact lens use during active symptoms and suggest appropriate alternatives or management strategies to help you maintain clear vision comfortably.
What support is available for severe symptoms?
For severe cases, we offer priority appointments and provide comprehensive strategies to help you manage symptoms effectively at work, home, or school.

Ready to find relief from eye allergies?

Whether you're seeking treatment for yourself or your child, our specialist team can help you understand your triggers and develop an effective management plan tailored to your needs.
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