What does red eye feel like with allergic conjunctivitis?

The whites of the eyes may look pink or red, while itching is often the strongest sensation. You may also feel burning, grittiness, or mild puffiness around the eyelids. Tears can run, and clear or stringy fluid may collect near the lashes. Allergic conjunctivitis commonly affects both eyes and may appear alongside sneezing, an itchy nose, or exposure to pollen, dust, pets, or another trigger. Rubbing can increase irritation and swelling.

Avoid rubbing your eyes and wash your hands before touching your face. A cool, clean compress can soothe itching, and rinsing away an irritant may help. Limit contact with the suspected trigger where practical. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether lubricating drops or an allergy medicine is suitable. Do not share eye products, towels, or cosmetics, and discard eye makeup that may be contaminated.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms are severe, keep returning, affect one eye in an unusual way, or do not settle with trigger avoidance. Seek urgent help for significant eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, injury, marked swelling, or thick discharge. These features are not typical of simple allergy and need a clinician to examine the eye.

Could an allergy be causing these symptoms, or is another eye problem possible? Which drops are safe for me? How can I reduce contact with the likely trigger?