What is a common treatment option for allergic conjunctivitis?

Antihistamines are a common treatment option for allergic conjunctivitis because they work by blocking histamine receptors, which are triggered during an allergic response. When allergens such as pollen or pet dander come into contact with the conjunctival tissue, histamine is released, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and swelling. By inhibiting this action, antihistamines can effectively alleviate these symptoms, providing relief to those suffering from allergic conjunctivitis.

While corticosteroids can also be used in more severe cases to reduce inflammation, they are typically reserved for patients who do not respond adequately to antihistamines or have significant inflammation, due to potential side effects from long-term use. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce pain and inflammation but are not typically first-line treatments for allergic conjunctivitis specifically. Antibiotics are used to address bacterial infections, not allergic conditions, and therefore do not apply to allergic conjunctivitis, which is caused by an immune response rather than an infectious pathogen.