Is Allergic conjunctivitis serious?
Last updated September 7, 2026.
**Allergic conjunctivitis is usually not serious, but severe inflammation can rarely affect your vision.** You may have itching, redness, and watery eyes after exposure to pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Symptoms can persist if you keep encountering your trigger. Cool compresses, artificial tears, and reducing exposure can help you feel better. If you develop eye pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes, you need a clinician to check for other causes.
What to do
- **Reduce triggers:** Limit your exposure to pollen, dust mites, or pet dander that brings on symptoms.
- **Soothe your eyes:** Use a cool compress and artificial tears to ease irritation.
- **Ask about allergy drops:** Ask a pharmacist which antihistamine eye drops are appropriate for you.
- **Pause contact lenses:** Wear glasses until your symptoms clear or your eye doctor clears you to resume contacts.
- **Get prompt care:** Seek medical care for eye pain, light sensitivity, intense redness, or persistent blurred vision.
- **Follow up:** See a clinician if your symptoms worsen or fail to improve with home care.
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