Spring conjunctivitis: symptoms and care

Pollen can trigger inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin surface covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. Itching is often prominent, with watering, redness, puffy lids and a gritty feeling. Both eyes may be affected, and symptoms can flare outdoors or during periods of high pollen.

Allergy is not the only explanation for a red eye. Viral or bacterial Conjunctivitis may spread between people and can cause discharge. Eye Discharge, Light Sensitivity and Red Eye can help describe the problem, but they do not identify its cause without considering pain, vision and examination findings.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash hands often and use a cool clean compress over closed lids. Sunglasses can reduce exposure to airborne pollen. Preservative-free lubricating drops or an allergy eye drop may help when recommended by a pharmacist or clinician. Do not share towels, cosmetics or eye drops, and pause contact lenses while eyes are red or uncomfortable. Antibiotic Treatment is not useful for an allergic cause unless a clinician identifies a bacterial infection.

Arrange a GP Consultation if symptoms keep returning, do not improve with sensible allergy care or are difficult to distinguish from infection. Seek urgent eye care for significant pain, marked Light Sensitivity, reduced or blurred vision, injury, a chemical splash, one-sided severe redness or thick discharge. Do not delay assessment because the eye appears to be reacting to pollen.

Does this look allergic, viral or bacterial? Which drops are suitable with my contact lenses or other medicines? How should I prevent pollen exposure? What change in pain, discharge or vision means I should return urgently?