ALLERGIES
Allergies (allergic rhinitis) affect over 20% of the general population and are on the rise in many developed countries. The specific reason for the increasing prevalence of allergies has not been determined; some believe it is due to the effects of pollution in urban areas while others consider that modern lifestyles don't allow for enough childhood exposure to allergens to become acclimated to them.
Allergies can affect a variety of systems and tissues in the body including the eyes, nose, lungs, and skin. Often, these can occur in combination. Ocular allergies are a significant component of many people's allergic condition. It is very common to have both nasal and ocular allergies together. These can have significant effects on quality of life. The itchy, red eyes and swollen eyelids combined with runny nose, sneezing, and congestion can impact work and school activities. Red and swollen eyes can be particularly troublesome in public or social situations. There are now more treatment options available than ever before, so although allergies are bothersome, relief is within reach. For ocular allergies, no allergy treatment is more specifically aimed at treating eye signs and symptoms than eye drops.
Seasonal allergies are caused by pollens such as those from various types of grasses, trees, or ragweed. The pollen grains of these plants are most prevalent at specific times of the year in the geographic areas where growing conditions are optimal. For example, ragweed allergies are at their worst in late summer and early fall in the northeastern US, when ragweed plants are flowering. Weather also affects allergy severity: when dry and windy, airborne pollens can spread more easily. Damp or rainy weather, however, can help remove pollens from the air. Allergies that persist year round may be caused by pet hair and dander or indoor molds.
