Conjunctivitis allergica

The immune system reacts to an airborne or contact trigger such as pollen, dust, mould, animal dander, or a cosmetic. Both eyes are often affected, with itching and watering more prominent than pain. Eyelid swelling, a gritty feeling, or stringy discharge can occur. Symptoms may appear after exposure and ease when the trigger is avoided. Infection can look similar, particularly when there is sticky discharge, so the pattern matters.

Avoid rubbing your eyes and wash your hands after outdoor exposure or contact with a suspected trigger. Cool compresses and preservative-free lubricating drops may soothe irritation; ask a pharmacist or clinician which allergy treatment fits your age, medicines, pregnancy status, and eye history. Keep cosmetics and contact lenses away from irritated eyes. Antibiotic treatment is not useful for an allergic cause.

Seek urgent eye care for severe pain, reduced vision, strong light sensitivity, a chemical exposure, or a rapidly worsening swollen eye. Arrange a GP consultation if symptoms keep returning, affect sleep, involve only one painful eye, or do not settle after avoiding likely triggers.

Ask which trigger is most plausible, whether the symptoms fit allergy rather than infection, and which drops are suitable. Discuss prevention during seasonal exposure and when contact lenses can be used again.