Inner eye red and itchy: what to know

The inner corner can become inflamed after contact with pollen, dust, cosmetics, smoke, or a new eye product. Allergic conjunctivitis often causes itching, watering, and redness, commonly affecting both eyes. Conjunctivitis may cause redness with watery or sticky discharge and can spread between eyes. A small irritant may settle after it is removed, while persistent symptoms deserve a closer look.

Wash your hands before touching the eye and rinse away a suspected irritant with clean water or sterile saline. A cool clean compress may ease itching and swelling. Avoid rubbing, eye makeup, and contact lenses until the eye feels normal. Do not share towels or pillows if discharge is present. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose suitable drops, especially if you have other eye conditions or take regular medicines.

Seek urgent care for severe eye pain, light sensitivity, a sudden change in vision, marked swelling, an injury, or a chemical splash. Arrange medical advice when redness is worsening, discharge is thick, symptoms persist, or a contact-lens wearer develops a painful red eye. These features can need examination rather than home treatment.

Could this be allergy, infection, or irritation? Should I stop any eye products or lenses? Which symptoms would mean I need same-day review?