What are the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis?

The condition is an allergic reaction affecting the thin surface covering the eye. It often affects both eyes and may appear after exposure to pollen, dust, mould, animal dander, or another trigger. Itching is a particularly useful clue; soreness, sticky discharge, or marked light sensitivity can point to another eye problem. A blocked or runny nose may occur at the same time when nasal allergies are also active.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, because rubbing can increase irritation and swelling. Wash your face after outdoor exposure, keep windows closed when airborne triggers are high, and use a clean cool compress for comfort. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether lubricating drops or allergy medication is suitable. Do not share eye drops, towels, or cosmetics, and remove contact lenses until the eyes feel settled.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are severe, keep returning, affect one eye much more than the other, or do not improve with trigger avoidance. Seek urgent assessment for eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, pronounced light sensitivity, injury, or swelling that makes it difficult to open the eye. These features are not typical of a simple allergic reaction.

Could another eye condition explain the discharge or light sensitivity? Which triggers should I avoid, and should I consider allergy testing? Are my current drops, lenses, or medicines making the irritation worse?