Conjunctivitis and an itchy eye: what to know

Conjunctivitis irritates the thin surface of the eye and inner eyelid. Allergy often causes prominent itching, watering and symptoms in both eyes, while infection may bring redness, soreness, crusting or discharge; these patterns can overlap. Rubbing releases more irritants and can scratch the surface, so the feel of the eye and any change in vision matter more than itch alone. A clinician can assess the eyelids and eye surface when the cause is unclear.

Use a cool, clean compress over closed eyelids and wash hands before touching the face. Avoid rubbing, smoke, dust, eye makeup and contact lenses while the eye is irritated. Do not share towels or cosmetics, and discard eye makeup used during an infection. Lubricating drops or allergy treatment may help some people, but ask a pharmacist or clinician which product fits your symptoms; avoid using someone else’s prescription drops.

Get prompt medical advice for significant pain, reduced or blurred vision, strong light sensitivity, a swollen eyelid, injury, chemical exposure or a foreign body. Urgent assessment is needed if symptoms deteriorate quickly or the eye cannot be opened. Persistent itch with a red eye also deserves review when simple avoidance measures do not help, because eyelid or corneal conditions can mimic conjunctivitis.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergy, infection or irritation, whether contact lenses should be stopped, which drops are suitable, and what symptoms should lead to same-day assessment.