Seasonal conjunctivitis symptoms: what to know

Both eyes may feel irritated, gritty, or swollen, and clear tears can run more than usual. Sneezing or a blocked, itchy nose may occur at the same time because the trigger affects the upper airways as well as the eye surface. Light may feel uncomfortable when the eyes are inflamed; see Light Sensitivity for more context.

A thick or sticky discharge is less typical of a purely allergic pattern. Eye Discharge can have several causes, so its colour, texture, and timing help a clinician distinguish allergy from infection or another eye problem. Seasonal symptoms can recur around the same time of year, but a new or persistent episode still deserves attention.

Limit contact with the suspected trigger, avoid rubbing your eyes, and wash your hands after being outdoors. A cool, clean compress over closed eyelids may ease heat and itching. Keep contact lenses out while the eyes are irritated and use fresh lens supplies when you restart them.

A pharmacist or GP can discuss suitable allergy treatment and check whether another cause is possible. Do not share towels, eye cosmetics, or eye drops. Red Eye explains the appearance that can accompany irritation, while Conjunctivitis covers the wider condition.

Arrange a GP Consultation if symptoms are not settling, keep returning, or interfere with work, sleep, or vision. Seek prompt medical help for eye pain, marked light sensitivity, reduced or blurred vision, injury, or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye. These features need assessment rather than self-treatment.

Ask what trigger is most plausible, whether the pattern fits allergy rather than infection, and which drops are appropriate for your eyes. You can also ask how long to avoid lenses, what changes should prompt review, and whether Antibiotic Treatment has any role; antibiotics do not treat an allergic trigger.