What is vernal conjunctivitis?
Vernal conjunctivitis is an eye inflammation caused by an allergy. The allergic reaction can be due to substances like air pollution, pollen, mold spores, animal dander, or mites.

What are the symptoms of vernal conjunctivitis?
Symptoms can occur independently or in combination. These include itching, redness, burning, and clear water discharge. Children with vernal conjunctivitis may have other allergic disorders like allergic colds (rhinitis), asthma, or allergic skin problems. They may have symptoms of those conditions along with the eye symptoms.

How can vernal conjunctivitis be diagnosed?
Your child’s eye specialist will examine your child’s eye and will ask you about your child’s symptoms and
health history. The eye signs include the formation of ‘papillae’ which would be seen on a slit lamp
examination. Some children may get a gelatinous thickening around the outer layer of the eye (called
cornea). This is also a sign of active vernal conjunctivitis.

What are the treatments provided?
Child eye specialists prescribe steroid drops, anti-allergic drops, and lubricating eye drops depending on the severity of the problem. Children who have repeated eye allergies need extra treatment with medicines that help their immunity. These include cyclosporine eye drops or tacrolimus eye ointment for long periods to reduce the allergic response.

Are there home remedies for vernal conjunctivitis?

• Along with medicines, one can apply a cold compress to the eyes. (Wrap an ice cube in a clean
  handkerchief and place it over the closed eye. Alternatively, ice packs can be placed over the closed lids). One can also keep slices of cool cucumber over closed lids to reduce the sensation of itching.
• Contact lens users should stop using lenses till the allergy is resolved.
• Children should be kept away from playing in mud or sand.
• Ensure to change their bedding every 4-5 days.
• Avoid using blankets with furs as they attract more mites.
• Avoid touching the eyes frequently and
• encourage frequent hand washing.

Can vernal conjunctivitis lead to serious vision problems?
Generally, vernal conjunctivitis is not very serious. However, recurrent and chronic vernal conjunctivitis can damage the surface of the eyes. This may lead to corneal damage, conjunctival scarring, and pigmentation of the conjunctiva causing yellowish discoloration of the eyes. Intense rubbing of the eyes may predispose to a serious corneal condition called keratoconus. In keratoconus, the cornea becomes thin and bulging which leads to reduced vision.

If you suspect that your child could be suffering from vernal conjunctivitis, do contact your child’s eye specialist. You may visit Dr. Prachi Agashe, a child eye specialist in Mumbai at Agashe Hospital. You can reach her via email at contactus@agashehospital.com or via phone at 9867539883.