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Pollens (weed, grass, and tree), dust mites, mold spores, animal dander and feathers, and perfumes are among the common allergens causing allergic conjunctivitis. In recent years, topical medications, contact lenses, and contact-lens solutions also have been known contributors to allergic conjunctivitis.

Factors that affect the intensity, frequency, and duration of allergic conjunctivitis include humidity, temperature, and a person’s activity. In general, cooler temperatures seem to alleviate the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, whereas hot and dry weather usually intensify and aggravate the condition.

People who complain of severe itching and inflammation should be checked by a doctor for atopic keratoconjunctivitis (a perennial and severe ocular inflammatory condition associated with atopic dermatitis, or eczema, in adults) or vernal conjunctivitis (severe ocular itching that occurs in the spring and usually affects children between the ages of 11 and 13).

Type I hypersensitivity (immediate, IgE-mediated) has been extensively studied in animal models to better understand the immunopathology of allergic conjunctivitis.

Different routes of antigen exposure, including direct sensitization of the conjunctiva, as well as injections of protein antigens into the skin (intradermal) and the vitreous of the eye (intravitreal), resulted in a rise of IgE.

In human studies, specific antigens were applied directly to the conjunctiva. Within minutes, the onset of all symptoms seen in allergic conjunctivitis—redness, itching, swelling, and tearing—were evident. Analysis of tears demonstrated a high concentration of chemicals secreted by white blood cells in defense of the invading antigens.

These chemicals (histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins) are responsible for the inflammatory response typically seen with allergies.

The conjunctiva of the eye is a membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and extends over the white part of the eye (the sclera). The conjunctiva and eyelid normally function as a natural and immunologic barrier to a vast number of foreign invaders, including bacteria and viruses.

A crucial role in the normal defense against ocular invaders is played by many important cells, including mast cells, plasma cells, lymphocytes, and neutrophils—white blood cells and their derivatives. The mast cell, which is found throughout the eyelid and conjunctiva, is one of the most important players in allergic reactions. Plasma cells are actively involved in making antibodies (immunoglobulins) such as IgE. In allergic individuals, IgE is found in their tears and glands that make tears (lacrimal glands). Both immediate (IgE-mediated) and delayed hypersensitivity (lymphocyte-mediated) immune responses have been shown in experimental models of allergic conjunctivitis.

Although red blood cells (eosinophils) are not normally present in the conjunctiva, they may be found in conjunctival scrapings from people with allergic conjunctivitis. The presence of a single eosinophil (or its granules) usually points to allergic conjunctivitis; however, the frequency of finding eosinophils in conjunctival scrapings may vary with the duration of exposure.

Whether it’s a 2-mile morning jog around the neighborhood, a training run for a local 10K or an intense series of sprints in a track event, warm weather means more fitness-conscious folks are lacing up their shoes and hitting the road.But what many runners don’t realize is that they’re running on empty when it comes to the right balance of nutrients for attaining peak performance. Sports nutritionists often first recommend balanced, whole-foods meals to ensure their clients are getting the essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids needed for athletic performance; but more often than not, runners aren’t eating enough food-or the right foods-to meet their daily nutrient needs. That’s why supplements can be the saving grace for refueling the runner’s stride, bringing faster speeds, enhanced endurance and amplified energy.

Studies show that runners in particular come up short on B vitamins, zinc, magnesium and antioxidants. The type of running, whether for fitness or competition, can also determine specific nutritional gaps. For instance, recreational runners-like joggers or those who might participate in an occasional 5K race-might not deplete the same amounts of minerals, electrolytes and antioxidants that a competitive racer would.

Sports nutritionists agree that long-distance runners in particular benefit from glutamine, an amino acid that meets increased protein needs to speed muscle recovery following an event; pyruvate, a metabolism constituent that improves muscular endurance; and glucosamine sulfate to relieve joint pain and inflammation. Antioxidants are also very important to endurance runners.

Women runners in particular need to be sure to get enough iron. Because many women don’t eat enough foods high in iron, a slow-release iron supplement can keep up energy and ward off the possibility of anemia.

For sprinters, studies have shown that creatine can help. According to manufacturers’ labels, loading up on the supplement for several days can boost muscle strength and sprint performance. The trick with creatine is taking the right amount over a certain period of time to get the best benefits.