Itchy eyes: what to know

Allergic conjunctivitis commonly presents with itching, watering, and redness in both eyes, sometimes together with sneezing or a runny nose. House dust mites, pets, pollen, dust, smoke, and cosmetics can act as triggers. Irritation from lenses, dry air, or a foreign particle may produce a similar urge to rub. Gritty discomfort can accompany dryness. Thick discharge, eyelids stuck together, or symptoms confined to one eye may need assessment for infection or another eye problem. Itchy eyes do not identify one cause by themselves.

Wash your hands and use a cool compress over closed eyelids. Rinse obvious dust or chemical irritants with clean water, but obtain urgent advice after a chemical splash. Stop contact lenses and eye makeup while symptoms continue; do not share products or towels. Try to identify and reduce exposure to a suspected pet, dust-mite, or seasonal trigger. Information on Allergic Conjunctivitis, Allergic Rhinitis, and Allergy Medication may help you prepare for a pharmacist or clinician discussion.

Get prompt medical help for eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, strong light sensitivity, severe swelling, a recent eye injury, or a sensation that will not wash out. Seek urgent assessment when symptoms worsen quickly or occur with severe headache, nausea, or vomiting. If itching keeps returning, affects daily activities, or does not improve after avoiding triggers, an eye examination can distinguish allergy from dryness, eyelid disease, infection, or corneal irritation.

What pattern does my eye examination suggest? Could a household or seasonal trigger be involved? Which drops or Allergy Medication are appropriate, and when should I stop self-treatment?