Why is eye itching so severe in allergic rhinitis?
Nov 28, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, allergic rhinitis may cause severe itchy eyes, possibly related to naso-ocular reflex, abnormal tear secretion, allergic conjunctivitis, vernal catarrhal conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, and other factors. If you experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Regular appropriate exercise and improvement of physical fitness in daily life can help alleviate allergic reactions and enhance the body's immune capacity.
Generally, severe eye itching caused by allergic rhinitis may be related to factors such as naso-ocular reflex, abnormal tear secretion, allergic conjunctivitis, vernal catarrhal conjunctivitis, and dry eye syndrome. If any discomfort occurs, please seek medical attention promptly and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Naso-Ocular Reflex
In patients with allergic rhinitis, when nasal mucosa is stimulated by allergens, an inflammatory response in the nasal mucosa can occur. This inflammatory response may affect the eyes via neural reflexes, causing itching sensations in the eyes. In daily life, patients with allergic rhinitis should avoid contact with allergens such as pollen and dust mites as much as possible.
2. Abnormal Tear Secretion
Inflammation of the nasal cavity caused by allergic rhinitis may lead to blockage of the nasolacrimal duct, affecting the normal drainage of tears. Accumulation of tears in the eyes can easily lead to bacterial growth, causing ocular discomfort including symptoms such as itching and dryness. It is important to maintain ocular hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes with hands.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammatory response of the conjunctiva triggered by allergens. Allergens such as pollen and dust mites can spread through the air to reach the eyes, triggering allergic reactions. Stimulation of the conjunctiva by allergens leads to conjunctival congestion and edema, subsequently causing eye itching, which may be accompanied by foreign body sensation, photophobia, and increased secretions. Treatment may include the use of antiallergic eye drops such as Emedastine Fumarate Eye Drops, Olopatadine Hydrochloride Eye Drops, Dexamethasone Eye Drops, etc., as directed by a physician.
4. Vernal Catarrhal Conjunctivitis
Vernal catarrhal conjunctivitis is a seasonal allergic conjunctivitis mainly caused by allergens such as plant pollens. Allergens stimulate the eyes, causing conjunctival congestion and edema accompanied by intense itching. It may also be associated with eyelid swelling and conjunctival follicular hyperplasia. Treatment may include the use of Ketotifen Fumarate Eye Drops, Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops, Loratadine Tablets, etc., as directed by a physician.
5. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is an ocular condition caused by insufficient tear secretion or excessive tear evaporation. In patients with allergic rhinitis, inflammation of the nasal passages may lead to blockage of the nasolacrimal duct, affecting the normal secretion and drainage of tears. Insufficient tear secretion can lead to symptoms such as ocular dryness, itching, and foreign body sensation, and may also be accompanied by eye fatigue and blurred vision. Treatment may include the use of Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops, Polyvinyl Alcohol Eye Drops, Hydroxyethylcellulose Eye Drops, etc., as directed by a physician.
Regular moderate exercise and improvement of physical fitness in daily life can help reduce allergic reactions and enhance the body's immunity. At the same time, maintaining good sleep habits, avoiding staying up late and excessive fatigue, can also help prevent the occurrence of ocular discomfort symptoms.
