What are the treatment options for allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is an allergic reaction affecting the surface of the eyes. It commonly causes itching, redness, watering and puffy eyelids, often alongside other allergy symptoms. Itching strongly points towards allergy, but infection, irritation and contact-lens problems can look similar.

A clinician considers both eyes, the appearance of the discharge, vision changes and possible exposures. This matters because antibiotic eye drops do not treat an allergy and may be unsuitable when the cause is different.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands after outdoor exposure, and use a cool clean compress for comfort. Reducing contact with the suspected trigger may help, although avoiding every possible allergen is rarely practical.

Allergy medication may include eye drops or medicines taken by mouth, selected according to symptoms and medical history. Allergy testing can help identify a trigger when symptoms recur, are difficult to control, or the diagnosis is uncertain. Follow product directions and check before using medication in a child or during pregnancy.

Arrange medical advice for persistent symptoms, marked swelling or symptoms that keep returning. Seek urgent eye care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced or blurred vision, injury, or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye.

Ask whether the pattern is allergic conjunctivitis, which drops are suitable, how long to use them, and whether allergy testing would change your treatment.