What is an important characteristic of allergic conjunctivitis?

What is an important characteristic of allergic conjunctivitis?

• A. Discharge that is purulent
• B. Presence of itchy eyes
• C. Redness without tearing
• D. Worsening with bright light

Answer: (B)

An important characteristic of allergic conjunctivitis is the presence of itchy eyes. This symptom occurs due to the release of histamines and other inflammatory mediators in response to allergens, leading to irritation and discomfort around the eyes. Itchy eyes are often accompanied by other symptoms like watery discharge and redness, but the itchiness is particularly distinctive and serves as a key indicator of allergic conjunctivitis as opposed to other forms of conjunctivitis, such as bacterial, which produces more purulent discharge. Other features typically associated with allergic conjunctivitis, such as redness and tearing, emphasize that the inflammatory response is a central aspect of this condition.

An important characteristic of allergic conjunctivitis is the presence of itchy eyes. This symptom occurs due to the release of histamines and other inflammatory mediators in response to allergens, leading to irritation and discomfort around the eyes. Itchy eyes are often accompanied by other symptoms like watery discharge and redness, but the itchiness is particularly distinctive and serves as a key indicator of allergic conjunctivitis as opposed to other forms of conjunctivitis, such as bacterial, which produces more purulent discharge. Other features typically associated with allergic conjunctivitis, such as redness and tearing, emphasize that the inflammatory response is a central aspect of this condition.