Eye drops are prescribed to treat symptoms that result from a variety of allergic conditions that affect the eyes, including:

• Allergic conjunctivitis. An allergic reaction that involves an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white of the eye. This can result in itching, burning, and redness in the eye. Swollen eyelids, watery eyes and eye discharge are also symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
  
  

  

• Atopic keratoconjunctivitis. An eye allergy usually associated with atopic dermatitis (eczema caused by allergies). It involves inflammation of the conjunctiva and the cornea, a transparent dome on the surface of the eye. Symptoms include heavy discharge from the eye and scaling and crusting of the eyelid. In severe cases, eyelids thicken and the eyes become very sensitive to light (photophobia).
  
  
• Vernal keratoconjunctivitis. A sight-threatening inflammation of the tarsal conjunctiva (the membrane covering the back of the eyelid). Symptoms include stringy discharge from the eye, intense itchiness and sensitivity to light. The condition is uncommon and disproportionately affects preadolescent boys.
  
  
• Allergic rhinitis. Commonly called hay fever, this condition is an inflammation of the inner lining of the nose that occurs when an allergic individual is exposed to airborne allergens (e.g., pollen, mold, dust mites, animal dander). Allergic rhinitis can trigger symptoms in the eyes such as watery eyes, burning and itching. In some people, the eyes are the only part of the body that manifests symptoms related to allergic rhinitis.