Keratoconus is an ocular condition where the cornea thins and the corneal surface becomes irregular. Because it impacts the structure of the cornea, keratoconus affects the patient's vision significantly.

Usually, keratoconus begins at puberty and keeps progressing as the patient ages. The disease affects both eyes simultaneously, but one eye is usually worse than the other. Eye doctors cannot predict how the condition will progress or how fast it will progress.

On its own, keratoconus affects vision significantly. However, it can get considerably worse if you get allergies. Some allergens can cause vision loss for patients with keratoconus before getting treatment.

Symptoms of Ocular Allergies

Eye allergies are prevalent in the United States. Some people have allergies all year round, while others only in certain seasons. Hay fever or allergic rhinitis affects over 6.1 million children and about 20 million adults. 

Eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, occur when foreign elements enter the eyes. Eye allergies are common because the eyes are very vulnerable and sensitive. However, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious despite what the name implies.

Some of the primary symptoms of eye allergies are:

 

• Redness of the sclera
   

• Watery eyes
   

• Itchiness
   

• Swollen eyelids
   

• Burning sensations
   

• The feeling of sand in the eye

Allergic Rhinitis

The most common allergic reaction that affects people with keratoconus is allergic rhinitis. It occurs when something in the environment triggers the immune system. It causes stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, fatigue, and headaches.

About 10 to 30 percent of people worldwide have allergic rhinitis. It is usually classified as either persistent or seasonal. Depending on the form of rhinitis, the doctor will develop a treatment plan. 

Allergic Rhinitis and Contact Lenses

A symptom of allergic rhinitis that affects patients with keratoconus is watery eyes. Watery eyes can make wearing contact lenses challenging. Watery eyes can cause the contact lens to shift from its proper position. This causes issues for patients with keratoconus and myopia who need contact lenses to see well.

Allergic Rhinitis and Keratoconus Progression

One of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis is itchy eyes, which can cause you to rub your eyes. According to Ophthalmology Advisor, eye rubbing is closely related to the thinning of the cornea. 

So, if you have allergic rhinitis and rub your eyes due to the allergy, your cornea may begin to thin. If you notice your eyes are too itchy, see a doctor immediately instead of rubbing your eyes.

How to Treat Allergic Rhinitis

As mentioned above, the treatment of allergic rhinitis depends on what form it is. The following are the standard treatments for allergic rhinitis.

 

• Prescription antihistamines for everyday use
   

• Over-the-counter drugs for decongestion
   

• Nasal steroid sprays
   

• Sublingual tablets for immunotherapy or allergy shots

The treatment may vary based on the frequency or severity of the allergic reaction.

How to Prevent Eye Allergies

You can take several steps to ensure you do not increase the chances of experiencing eye allergies. The best way is to avoid triggers that cause allergies.

For more on whether allergies impact keratoconus, visit Clarity Vision at our offices in Apex. You can call (919) 367-2832 to book an appointment today.