What happens after a telemedicine visit for Allergic Conjunctivitis

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for allergic conjunctivitis, you will usually receive guidance on managing your symptoms at home. Allergic conjunctivitis is an eye condition caused by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander, leading to redness, itching, and watery eyes. Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter allergy eye drops, antihistamines, or other treatments to relieve discomfort. You might also get advice on avoiding triggers and keeping your eyes clean. Follow-up care may be suggested if symptoms persist or worsen. Telemedicine allows you to discuss your symptoms and get treatment advice without visiting a clinic, but it has limits. If you experience severe symptoms or signs of infection, you may need in-person care. Always watch for red flags like eye pain, vision changes, or intense redness, and seek urgent care if these occur.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain requiring immediate medical attention
• Sudden changes or loss of vision
• Thick yellow or green eye discharge indicating possible infection

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild to moderate allergic conjunctivitis symptoms
• Providing guidance on symptom management and allergen avoidance
• Prescribing or recommending over-the-counter allergy eye drops and oral antihistamines
• Monitoring symptom progress and advising on follow-up

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating severe eye pain or vision changes
• Managing suspected eye infections needing laboratory tests or procedures
• Performing eye examinations requiring specialized equipment
• Treating complications such as corneal damage or glaucoma

Understanding Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis happens when your eyes react to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. This reaction causes your eyes to become red, itchy, watery, and sometimes swollen. It is a common condition that usually isn’t serious but can be uncomfortable. Knowing what triggers your symptoms helps in managing and preventing flare-ups.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will likely suggest treatments such as antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops. They may also recommend oral antihistamines if needed. You will get advice on avoiding allergens and maintaining eye hygiene. Your provider might schedule a follow-up appointment to check your progress or suggest seeing an eye specialist if symptoms do not improve.

Managing Symptoms at Home

To ease symptoms, you can:

These steps often help reduce discomfort and prevent worsening symptoms.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you notice any of the following, seek urgent in-person medical care:

These signs may indicate a more serious eye condition or infection requiring prompt evaluation.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Keep track of your symptoms and how well treatments are working. If symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, contact your healthcare provider. They may adjust your treatment or recommend a face-to-face eye examination. Regular follow-up helps prevent complications and ensures proper care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place for your telemedicine visit
• Have a list of your symptoms including when they started
• Prepare to describe any known allergies or triggers
• Have a list of current medications and eye drops you use
• Be ready to show your eyes clearly on camera if requested
• Note any questions or concerns to discuss with your provider

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions given by your provider
• Avoid allergens and irritants as advised
• Use cool compresses and maintain eye hygiene
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if symptoms persist or worsen
• Seek urgent care if red flags develop

FAQs

Can allergic conjunctivitis go away on its own?

Yes, allergic conjunctivitis often improves once you avoid the allergen causing the reaction. Symptoms may resolve without treatment, but using recommended medications can relieve discomfort faster.

Are prescription eye drops always needed?

Not always. Many cases improve with over-the-counter antihistamine or lubricating eye drops. Your healthcare provider will advise if prescription medications are necessary based on symptom severity.

Can I wear contact lenses if I have allergic conjunctivitis?

It is usually best to avoid contact lenses during flare-ups as they can irritate the eyes further. Your provider can give specific advice about when it is safe to resume wearing them.

How can I prevent allergic conjunctivitis?

Avoid exposure to known allergens, keep windows closed during high pollen times, use air purifiers, wash your hands and face regularly, and avoid rubbing your eyes.

When should I see an eye specialist?

If symptoms do not improve with treatment, worsen, or if you experience vision changes, your healthcare provider may recommend seeing an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

Sources

1. Allergic Conjunctivitis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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 severe symptoms or urgent concerns, seek immediate medical attention.