What should you know about cat hay fever eyes?

Hay fever, also called [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/), is an allergy affecting the nose and nearby airways. The same exposure can irritate the eye surface, causing itching, watering, redness and puffy eyelids; this pattern is called [Allergic Conjunctivitis](/conditions/allergic-conjunctivitis/). Eye symptoms often occur with sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, or an itchy throat. Thick discharge, marked pain or vision change suggests a different problem and deserves assessment.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, as rubbing can increase swelling and irritation. Wash your face and hands after outdoor exposure, keep windows closed when pollen is high, and use clean glasses or sunglasses outdoors. A cool clean compress may soothe the eyelids. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on antihistamines or allergy eye drops, especially for children, pregnancy, contact-lens use or other medicines. Persistent nasal symptoms can contribute to [Sinusitis](/conditions/sinusitis/); wheezing should prompt discussion of [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/).

Arrange medical review for symptoms that persist, interfere with sleep or work, or do not respond to appropriate pharmacy advice. Seek urgent help for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, injury, intense light sensitivity, or swelling that affects breathing. A clinician should assess one-sided symptoms, pus-like discharge or fever, because these do not fit simple hay fever as closely.

Could this be allergic conjunctivitis or another eye problem? Which drops are suitable for me? Should I change contact-lens use? Would treating my nose improve my eyes? Do I need an allergy review?