Hay fever and pink eye

Pollen can trigger inflammation in the thin membrane covering the eye. Both eyes may become itchy, watery, swollen or bloodshot, often alongside sneezing and a runny nose. Itching is a useful clue because allergic irritation commonly makes people rub their eyes; rubbing can increase swelling and discomfort.

Allergic conjunctivitis is not the same as every cause of a red eye. Infection may bring sticky discharge, while a scratch, contact-lens problem or other eye condition can cause pain or reduced vision. The appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands and use a cool clean compress for comfort. Lubricating or allergy eye drops may help; a pharmacist can advise which type is appropriate and whether it is safe with your other medicines. Sunglasses outdoors and closing car windows can reduce pollen exposure.

Treating the nose may also reduce the overall hay fever flare. Keep contact lenses out while the eye is irritated unless an eye professional tells you otherwise. Do not share towels, eye drops or cosmetics, and replace eye makeup used during an episode.

Seek urgent eye care for significant pain, marked light sensitivity, a sudden change in vision, injury, or a painful red eye while wearing contact lenses. Get prompt help for swelling of the face or throat or breathing difficulty. Arrange a review when symptoms persist, recur without clear pollen exposure, or include thick discharge.

Do my eye symptoms fit allergic conjunctivitis? Which drops are suitable with my medicines or contact lenses? How can I tell allergy from infection? Should my nasal symptoms be treated too? What changes mean I need urgent eye care?