What should you know about prescription for allergies?

Red, watery, itchy eyes may be caused by an allergy, infection, irritation, or another eye problem. A clinician may recommend drops or another medicine after asking about timing, triggers, contact-lens use, and whether one or both eyes are affected. [Conjunctivitis](/conditions/conjunctivitis/) is a broad term for inflammation of the eye surface; allergy is only one possible cause. Eye discharge, light sensitivity, and red eye help guide the assessment.

Use drops exactly as directed and wash your hands before and after application. Do not share bottles, touch the tip to the eye, or wear contact lenses if the clinician tells you to remove them. Cold compresses may ease irritation, while avoiding a known trigger can reduce recurrence. Antibiotics treat some bacterial infections but do not treat an allergy, so do not use leftover medicine or someone else’s [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/).

Seek prompt care for significant eye pain, marked light sensitivity, a change in vision, injury, or swelling around the eye. Get emergency help for breathing difficulty or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if discharge persists, symptoms are worsening, or treatment is not helping.

Ask what cause is suspected, how long to use the prescription, whether contact lenses should be avoided, and which symptoms should trigger an eye review. Ask how to tell allergy from infection if discharge or redness returns.