Causes of red and itchy eyes

Allergic Conjunctivitis can make both eyes itch, water and look red. It may occur with sneezing or a blocked, runny nose from Allergic Rhinitis. Symptoms that appear around animals may fit Pet Allergy, while symptoms that are worse indoors or on waking may relate to House Dust Mite Allergy.

Itching points towards allergy, but dryness, contact-lens irritation, cosmetics, infection or a foreign particle can also redden the eye. Thick discharge, eyelid swelling or symptoms mainly affecting one eye should be described to a clinician rather than treated as allergy automatically.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands, and reduce contact with a suspected trigger. A cool clean compress can soothe irritation. Remove contact lenses while the eyes are red or uncomfortable unless an eye professional has advised otherwise.

A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Allergy Medication is suitable. Do not share eye drops, use someone else's prescription, or continue a product that increases redness. If symptoms keep returning, note where you were and what you had contacted before the flare.

Get urgent eye care for severe pain, reduced or blurred vision, marked light sensitivity, an eye injury, chemical exposure, a stuck foreign body, or redness with severe headache and nausea. Contact-lens wearers with pain or vision change should seek prompt assessment.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergy, dryness, infection or another eye problem, and whether you should stop any cosmetic or lens product. Mention discharge, vision changes, contact-lens use and possible household or seasonal triggers.