Eyes irritated and itchy: what should you know?

Allergic conjunctivitis commonly causes itching, redness, watering and puffy eyelids. Allergic rhinitis may occur at the same time, especially with sneezing or a blocked or runny nose. House dust mite allergy and pet allergy can trigger symptoms after exposure. Dry air, smoke, cosmetics, chlorine and contact lenses can also irritate the eye surface. Sticky discharge, increasing pain or light sensitivity may point away from simple allergy and deserves a clinician’s review.

Rinse the face and eyelids with clean water after an exposure, wash hands before touching the area, and apply a cool clean compress. Do not rub your eyes, share towels, or wear contact lenses while they are irritated. Keep windows closed during a known trigger and reduce dust around bedding. A pharmacist can discuss allergy medication or suitable lubricating drops; follow the label and avoid using someone else’s prescription drops.

Get urgent care for sudden vision loss or change, severe pain, an eye injury or chemical splash, intense light sensitivity, or swelling that affects breathing. Seek prompt assessment for one-sided worsening redness, pus-like discharge, a feeling that something is stuck, or symptoms that do not improve after avoiding the trigger. Contact lens wearers should seek advice sooner if pain or redness develops.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergic conjunctivitis, dry-eye irritation or infection; whether you should stop a product or contact lenses; and which drops are appropriate. Tell the clinician about new cosmetics, dust, pets, medicines, discharge, pain and any change in vision.