Dry eyes causes in children

Some expert claim that almost 20% of all people suffer from a condition called allergic conjunctivitis. The usual symptoms of this condition are red eyes and dark circles under the eyes. When a person already suffers from it, he or she should avoid certain allergens, allergy shots and over the counter or prescription medications. If the symptoms persist for some time, a person should take his or her child to the doctor.

Causes

Airborne allergens are the usual cause of this condition. Experts say that it is the pollen, pet dander, mold, dust mites, perfume and cigarette smoke that are the usual triggers.

Types

The risk of ending up with this condition does not last all year long but in certain seasons like spring or summer. In most cases it is the pollen that causes allergic conjunctivitis. On the other hand, perennial conjunctivitis can occur at any time of the year and it is usually pet dander that is the cause of it. Dust mites and feather can also be the cause of it. Among all the types of allergic conjunctivitis, vernal is probably the most dangerous one. People who are usually affected by vernal allergic conjunctivitis are males between the age of five and twenty with a history of asthma, eczema or seasonal allergies. This is another allergic conjunctivitis that does not last throughout the whole year.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms a child might complain about are red, swollen, itchy, burning and painful eyes. A parent may also notice dark circles forming under the eyes. Vernal allergic conjunctivitis can cause painful ulcerations to develop on the cornea and that can lead to vision loss.

Risk factors

A child whose parents or grandparents had problems with allergies has a greater chance of ending up with one. However, all children may suffer from it and there are no exceptions.

Treatment

Like with most diseases, the best way to fight it is to prevent it from happening. The best way is that the parent makes sure that his or her child does not get in contact with the allergens. Over the counter medications will help lessen the discomfort caused by dry eyes. A parent can also use artificial tears because they are safe for children of all ages and will soothe the irritation. If none of the medications helped, a person should take the child to the hospital.

Prevention

In order to prevent this from happening a parent should not let the child go outside when mold and pollen levels are high. A good thing to use in a house or a car is an air conditioner. When a child does go outside, a parent should make sure that he or she is wearing glasses. That will keep the allergens out of the eyes. Bed sheets should be washed more often and the house should be cleaned regularly.