Patient Profiles

Johan*, age 35

Johan complains of itchy, watery eyes after spending the afternoon playing golf. He notices that both eyes feel gritty and look red, and he feels like rubbing them. He also has a runny nose and explains that this has happened to him before. Johan probably has ocular allergy to some allergen from plants. He should rinse his eyes with clear, clean water and avoid rubbing them. He should try to avoid the allergen and see his eye doctor if his condition does not improve.

Amy*, age 46

Amy has swollen, puffy lids all day, starting in the morning. Her eyes feel watery. She tried a new makeup today that she has never used. She probably has ocular allergy and acute contact dermatitis. She should avoid her makeup, wash her face and eyes with clear, clean water or non-preserved saline solution and apply cold compresses to her eyes. If she does not feel any improvement, she should talk to her eye doctor.

Jack*, age 6

Jack has been playing all morning with his teddy bear. His mother notices that he has been rubbing his eyes, and they are red and watery. He could have ocular allergy from dust mite sensitivity. Jack’s mother should rinse his eyes with clear, cold water and avoid giving him toys that collect dust. She can wash Jack’s teddy bear and vacuum the room thoroughly, as well as avoiding feather comforters and pillows or any other items that collect dust. If Jack’s condition does not improve, she should seek medical advice.