Hay fever and red eyes

Pollen can trigger release of histamine around the eyes. This may cause itching, watering, puffiness and redness in both eyes, often alongside sneezing or a runny nose. Redness alone does not identify the cause: infection, irritation, a foreign body or other eye conditions can look different and need separate assessment.

Allergic symptoms often affect both eyes and feel itchy rather than sharply painful. Thick discharge, eyelids stuck together, or symptoms spreading among close contacts may fit conjunctivitis and should be reviewed if they do not settle.

Do not rub your eyes; rubbing can worsen swelling and scratch the surface. Use a clean cool compress, wash your face after being outdoors, and keep contact lenses out while the eyes are red or uncomfortable. Ask a pharmacist about suitable allergy eye drops or an oral antihistamine, especially if you already use other medicines.

Never share eye drops, towels or cosmetics. Replace eye makeup used during an episode and follow the product instructions rather than using someone else’s prescription.

Seek urgent eye care for severe pain, light sensitivity, reduced or blurred vision, an injury, or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye. Get prompt advice if one eye becomes very swollen, discharge is heavy, or redness occurs with headache or nausea. Breathing difficulty or facial swelling needs emergency help.

Does this look like allergic conjunctivitis or another form of conjunctivitis? Which drops are safe with my contact lenses and medicines? How long should I try home measures before arranging an eye review?