What is a primary cause of allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is primarily caused by environmental allergens. These allergens can include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and various other substances that may trigger an immune response in sensitive individuals. When these allergens come into contact with the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eye, it can lead to inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, such as redness, itching, and tearing. Understanding the role of allergens helps in identifying and managing allergic conjunctivitis effectively, making it crucial for both diagnosis and treatment strategies.

The other options, while they can impact eye health, do not directly cause allergic conjunctivitis. Viral infections can lead to other types of conjunctivitis, excessive screen time is primarily associated with digital eye strain rather than allergies, and age-related factors can influence various ocular conditions but are not a direct cause of allergic reactions in the conjunctiva.