Itching in eyes and watering

Smoke, dust, cosmetics, contact lenses, pollen, and dry air can irritate the eye surface. Allergy may cause itching in both eyes, clear tears, sneezing, or a runny nose. Infection is more concerning when discharge becomes thick, the eyelids stick together, or redness spreads. A rash around the eyes can also reflect contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis; avoid assuming an itchy eye is caused by a skin condition.

Wash your hands before touching the eyes, pause eye makeup and contact lenses, and rinse away a suspected irritant with clean water or sterile saline. A cool, clean compress may ease the urge to rub. Do not share towels, use someone else’s drops, or apply steroid cream near the eye without clinical advice. Note triggers, one-sided symptoms, discharge, and whether symptoms recur outdoors or after a product change.

Seek urgent care for severe eye pain, light sensitivity, a sudden change in vision, an eye injury, chemical exposure, or swelling that affects breathing. Arrange prompt medical review for contact-lens wear with redness or pain, worsening symptoms, marked swelling, or thick discharge. A clinician can examine the eye surface and choose treatment appropriate to the cause.

Could this be allergy, dryness, irritation, or infection? Should I stop contact lenses or a recently introduced cosmetic? Which drops are suitable, and what symptoms would mean I need same-day review?