Question 1

What is Allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammatory condition of the eye's conjunctiva that causes red, itchy, and watery eyes. It is caused by exposure to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores that trigger an immune response. The Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XI is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies specific allergens responsible for triggering your eye symptoms.

Question 2

What causes allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by environmental allergens such as pollen (from trees, grasses, and weeds), dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. When these allergens come into contact with your eyes, your immune system releases histamine and other inflammatory chemicals that cause the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye) to become inflamed. This immune response leads to the characteristic symptoms of red, itchy, watery, and swollen eyes that worsen during high pollen seasons or after exposure to specific triggers.

Question 3

What is the best test for allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XI is the most important test for allergic conjunctivitis because it identifies the specific environmental allergens triggering your eye symptoms. This comprehensive blood test measures IgE antibodies to regional allergens including alder pollen, various tree pollens, grasses, weeds, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander. Unlike general allergy tests, this panel is tailored to allergens common in mountainous regions of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. By pinpointing your exact triggers, your healthcare provider can develop a targeted treatment plan including specific avoidance strategies, immunotherapy options, and appropriate medications to prevent future flare-ups.

Question 4

When should I get tested for allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience recurring episodes of red, itchy, watery eyes that worsen during certain seasons or after exposure to specific environments like being outdoors, around pets, or in dusty areas. Testing is especially important if over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops provide only temporary relief, if your symptoms interfere with daily activities or work, or if you want to identify your specific triggers before starting immunotherapy (allergy shots). Early identification of your allergen triggers allows you to take preventive measures and receive targeted treatment before symptoms become severe or chronic.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

The primary symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include intense itching of both eyes, redness of the white part of the eye, excessive tearing and watery discharge, and swelling of the eyelids. You might also experience a burning sensation, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of grittiness or foreign body sensation in your eyes. Many people also have accompanying nasal allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Symptoms typically affect both eyes simultaneously and worsen during exposure to allergens, improving when you move to allergen-free environments or after taking antihistamines.

Question 6

Who is at risk for allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

People with a personal or family history of allergic conditions like hay fever, asthma, eczema, or food allergies are at higher risk for developing allergic conjunctivitis. Those who live in areas with high pollen counts, work outdoors, or have frequent exposure to dust, pet dander, or mold are more susceptible. Contact lens wearers may experience more severe symptoms because allergens can accumulate on lens surfaces. Children and young adults are commonly affected, though allergic conjunctivitis can develop at any age. The condition is particularly prevalent during spring and fall when pollen counts are highest.

Question 7

What happens if allergic conjunctivitis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

While allergic conjunctivitis is not typically sight-threatening, chronic untreated cases can lead to significant complications and reduced quality of life. Persistent rubbing of itchy eyes can cause corneal abrasions, chronic irritation, and secondary bacterial infections that require antibiotic treatment. Long-term inflammation may contribute to the development of vernal or atopic keratoconjunctivitis, more severe forms that can affect vision and cause permanent corneal damage. Ongoing symptoms can interfere with work, school performance, and sleep quality, leading to fatigue and decreased productivity. Identifying and treating the underlying allergen triggers prevents these complications and provides lasting relief.

Question 8

Can allergic conjunctivitis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Allergic conjunctivitis is primarily diagnosed through clinical examination of your symptoms and eye appearance, but blood testing plays a crucial role in identifying the specific allergens causing your reactions. Allergy blood tests measure IgE antibodies to specific allergens in your bloodstream, revealing which environmental triggers are responsible for your eye symptoms. These tests are particularly valuable when skin prick testing is not suitable, when you cannot stop taking antihistamines, or when you want comprehensive allergen identification to guide long-term treatment strategies. Blood testing provides objective data that helps your healthcare provider create a personalized treatment plan targeting your specific allergen sensitivities.

Question 9

How is allergic conjunctivitis treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for allergic conjunctivitis focuses on allergen avoidance, symptom relief, and preventing future episodes. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops and artificial tears provide quick relief for mild symptoms, while prescription medications like mast cell stabilizers, anti-inflammatory drops, or combination products may be needed for moderate to severe cases. Oral antihistamines help when you have accompanying nasal allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) offers long-term relief by gradually desensitizing your immune system to specific allergens. Cold compresses applied to closed eyes reduce swelling and itching. Your treatment plan should be tailored to your specific allergen triggers identified through testing.

Question 10

How can I prevent allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Prevention strategies depend on avoiding your specific allergen triggers identified through testing. During high pollen seasons, keep windows closed, use air conditioning with HEPA filters, and shower after being outdoors to remove pollen from hair and skin. Wear wraparound sunglasses when outside to physically block allergens from reaching your eyes. If you are allergic to dust mites, use allergen-proof bedding covers, wash sheets weekly in hot water, and reduce bedroom humidity. For pet allergies, keep pets out of bedrooms and bathe them regularly. Avoid rubbing your eyes, which worsens inflammation and can introduce bacteria. Starting preventive allergy medications before allergy season begins provides better symptom control than waiting for symptoms to develop.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with allergic conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Several natural approaches can complement medical treatment for allergic conjunctivitis. Applying cold compresses or washcloths soaked in cool water to closed eyes for 10-15 minutes several times daily reduces inflammation and soothes itching. Rinsing eyes with preservative-free saline solution or artificial tears flushes out allergens and provides moisture. Some people find relief using chilled chamomile tea bags as compresses, though avoid this if you have ragweed allergies as chamomile is related. Increasing omega-3 fatty acids through fish oil supplements or eating fatty fish may help reduce inflammatory responses. Keeping indoor air clean with HEPA air purifiers removes airborne allergens. However, natural remedies work best when combined with allergen identification through testing and appropriate medical treatment for comprehensive symptom management.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
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            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Allergic Conjunctivitis Blood Test

What is Allergic conjunctivitis?

What causes allergic conjunctivitis?

What is the best test for allergic conjunctivitis?

When should I get tested for allergic conjunctivitis?

References

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