What should you know about hay fever conjunctivitis treatment?

Allergens contact the thin surface covering the eye and trigger an inflammatory response. Itching is common, and rubbing can increase swelling and irritation. Both eyes may be affected, often with watery rather than thick discharge. Eye symptoms can occur with sneezing or a blocked nose. Sticky discharge, significant pain, pronounced light sensitivity or changes in vision can point to another eye problem and should not be assumed to be hay fever.

Avoid rubbing your eyes and wash your hands before touching them. Cool clean compresses may soothe burning and swelling. Sunglasses outdoors can reduce contact with airborne pollen. A pharmacist or clinician may recommend antihistamine eye drops, a mast-cell stabilising treatment or an oral antihistamine, depending on your symptoms and health history. Follow the label, avoid sharing eye drops, and check whether contact lenses should be removed during symptoms or treatment. Antibiotics do not treat an allergic trigger unless a clinician identifies a separate bacterial infection.

Arrange a GP consultation if symptoms are recurrent, interfere with vision or daily life, or do not settle with suitable allergy care. Seek urgent assessment for severe eye pain, marked light sensitivity, a sudden change in vision, injury, or swelling with breathing difficulty. Copious discharge or a very painful red eye also needs prompt review.

Ask whether the pattern is allergic conjunctivitis, which drops are suitable with your contact lenses, how to use them safely, and which symptoms would mean you need an urgent eye assessment.