Allergy Pink Eye: Symptoms, Relief and Warning Signs

It can affect both eyes after exposure to pollen, dust mites, pets or another allergen. Itching is a strong clue, while thick pus-like discharge, marked pain or changes in vision suggest that another eye problem needs assessment.

Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. Contact with an allergen prompts an immune response, producing itching, redness, tearing and puffy eyelids. Sneezing or an itchy, blocked nose may occur at the same time.

Watery or stringy discharge can occur with allergy. A sticky discharge that seals the eyelids, symptoms beginning in one eye and spreading, or recent contact with someone who has an eye infection can point toward infectious conjunctivitis instead.

Avoid rubbing, because friction can worsen swelling and irritation. Place a clean, cool compress over closed eyelids, wash your hands after touching your face and rinse allergens from the eyelid area with clean water. Remove contact lenses until the eyes are comfortable and follow the lens-care instructions before wearing them again.

Lubricating eye drops may wash away allergens. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antihistamine or mast-cell-stabilising eye drop suits you, especially if you use other eye medicines, are pregnant or have glaucoma. Do not share drops, and avoid using leftover antibiotic drops because antibiotics do not treat an allergic reaction.

Arrange prompt assessment for eye pain, pronounced sensitivity to light, blurred or reduced vision, severe swelling, injury, chemical exposure or a feeling that something remains in the eye. Contact-lens wearers with a painful red eye should remove the lenses and obtain urgent clinical advice because the cornea may be involved.

Seek emergency help if swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, faintness or difficulty breathing develops. Book a routine review if symptoms keep returning, do not settle with sensible self-care or produce thick discharge, as the diagnosis or treatment may need to change.

Ask whether the pattern fits an allergy or an infection, which drops are compatible with contact lenses and other medicines, and how long to stop lens wear. Describe when symptoms started, whether one or both eyes are affected, the type of discharge and any pain, light sensitivity or vision change.