CASE 4
[Link] R has a dilemma. How can we mange her condition while also allowing her to enjoy outside
activities
Managing Patient R's allergic conjunctivitis while allowing her to enjoy outdoor activities is possible with
a combination of strategies.
Allergen Avoidance
Check pollen forecasts and plan outdoor activities on days with lower pollen counts.
Eye Protection
Use antihistamine eye drops as prescribed by her doctor before heading outdoors to prevent
symptoms.
Allergy Shots
Consider discussing the option of allergy shots with an allergist. Allergy shots can help build tolerance
to specific allergens, such as pollen, over time.
Personal Hygiene
After returning from outdoor activities, advise Patient R to wash her face and hands thoroughly to
remove any pollen residue.
Monitor Symptoms
Patient R should regularly monitor her symptoms and communicate with her doctor regarding any
changes or severe exacerbations.
[Link] the anatomy and physiology of the related body system and how the condition affects the
system.
The eye, a remarkably intricate sensory organ, is composed of several vital structures, each playing a
unique role in the visual process. These components include the cornea, the transparent outer layer
responsible for focusing light onto the retina, the conjunctiva, a delicate mucous membrane covering the
sclera and lining the eyelids, the iris, which controls pupil size, the lens, crucial for precise light focusing,
and the retina, the innermost layer housing photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) responsible for light
detection and transmission of visual information to the brain via the optic nerve. The primary function of
the eye is to capture and process visual information, with incoming light passing through the cornea and
lens to form an image on the retina, where photoreceptors convert it into electrical signals for the brain's
interpretation. Additionally, tear production is a continuous process that maintains moisture and
safeguards against external irritants, with tears containing enzymes and proteins for defense against
foreign particles and bacteria.
Allergic conjunctivitis exhibits several distinct features: Firstly, it is characterized by redness in the eyes,
which results from the dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva due to an immune response triggered
by allergens. This inappropriate immune reaction to typically harmless substances, such as pollen or pet
dander, leads to the red appearance of the eyes. Secondly, itching is a common symptom, driven by the
release of histamine by mast cells in the conjunctiva, activating nerve endings and causing the sensation
of itching. The release of histamine, among other inflammatory mediators, when allergens come into
contact with the eye, results in blood vessel dilation, increased vascular permeability, and inflammation,
contributing to the hallmark symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
