How to prepare for a video visit about Allergic Conjunctivitis

Audience: adult

Allergic conjunctivitis is an eye condition caused by allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. It leads to symptoms like red, itchy, watery, or swollen eyes. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand your symptoms and discuss ways to manage them. Preparing well for your telemedicine appointment can make the visit more effective. This includes noting your symptoms, any possible allergen exposures, and your current treatments or medications. During the video visit, you can describe your symptoms and show your eyes to the provider. They may suggest treatments like allergy eye drops, antihistamines, or lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to allergens. However, some eye problems need in-person care, especially if symptoms worsen or if you experience pain or vision changes. Telemedicine can help you get advice quickly and decide if you need to see a healthcare provider in person.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or discomfort — seek emergency in-person care immediately.
• Sudden changes or loss of vision — contact a healthcare provider urgently.
• Thick, colored eye discharge or swelling around the eye — arrange prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of eye redness and itching symptoms.
• Review of allergy history and symptom triggers.
• Advice on over-the-counter treatments and allergen avoidance.
• Follow-up discussions about symptom progress and medication effects.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe eye pain or sudden vision changes needing urgent examination.
• Signs of eye infection requiring laboratory tests or procedures.
• Evaluation of trauma or injury to the eye.
• Prescription of certain medications that require in-person assessment.

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis happens when your eyes react to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. This causes your eyes to become red, itchy, watery, and sometimes swollen. It is not contagious and often happens seasonally or when you are exposed to triggers.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms and when they started. Note any recent exposures to allergens, such as being outdoors during high pollen days or contact with pets. Have a list of any medicines or eye drops you are using. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the video call where you can show your eyes clearly. Make sure your device’s camera works and your internet connection is stable.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may ask you to show your eyes on camera to look for redness or swelling. They will discuss possible treatments, such as allergy eye drops or oral antihistamines, and ways to avoid allergens. They may also advise if you need to see an eye specialist in person.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe eye pain, changes in vision, intense redness, or discharge that is thick or colored, you should seek in-person care promptly. These signs may indicate an infection or other serious eye conditions that need immediate attention.

Managing Allergic Conjunctivitis at Home

You can help reduce symptoms by avoiding known allergens, using cold compresses on your eyes, and keeping windows closed during high pollen times. Over-the-counter allergy eye drops may provide relief, but use them as directed. Follow your provider’s advice on medications and care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current symptoms and when they started.
• Note any recent exposure to allergens or irritants.
• Prepare a list of all medications and eye drops you are using.
• Ensure your device camera and microphone work properly.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Have a family member or friend available if you need assistance during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions given by your provider.
• Avoid known allergens and use cold compresses to soothe your eyes.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek in-person care immediately if red flags appear, such as severe pain or vision changes.

FAQs

Can allergic conjunctivitis be cured?

Allergic conjunctivitis cannot usually be cured, but its symptoms can be managed well with treatment and by avoiding allergens.

Are allergy eye drops safe to use?

Many allergy eye drops are safe when used as directed. However, it is important to follow your healthcare provider's advice and not overuse them.

Can I wear contact lenses if I have allergic conjunctivitis?

Wearing contact lenses during an allergic conjunctivitis flare may increase irritation. Your provider may advise you to switch to glasses temporarily.

When should I see an eye specialist?

If your symptoms do not improve with initial treatment or if you experience severe symptoms like pain or vision changes, you should see an eye specialist.

Can telemedicine replace in-person eye exams?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial advice and follow-up but cannot replace detailed eye exams needed for serious or complex conditions.

Sources

1. Allergic Conjunctivitis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Symptoms and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Allergic Conjunctivitis — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have serious or worsening symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.