Allergy Itchy Eyes Remedy: Effective Solutions for Nighttime Eye Discomfort
Why do eyes itch at night. What causes nighttime eye itching. How to alleviate itchy eyes before bed. Which treatments are most effective for nocturnal eye irritation. When should you see a doctor for itchy eyes at night.
Understanding the Causes of Itchy Eyes at Night
Experiencing itchy eyes at night can be a frustrating and uncomfortable situation that affects your sleep quality and overall well-being. There are several reasons why this irritation may occur specifically during nighttime hours:
- Increased awareness of bodily sensations in a quieter environment
- Exposure to different allergens at home compared to daytime environments
- Nighttime activities that may trigger allergic reactions
- Cumulative effects of daytime eye strain
- Dry eyes worsening throughout the day
Understanding these potential causes is crucial for finding effective remedies and improving your nighttime comfort.
Allergic Reactions: A Common Culprit for Nocturnal Eye Itching
Allergic reactions are frequently responsible for itchy eyes at night. Your home environment may contain various allergens that you’re not exposed to during the day, leading to increased irritation in the evening. Some common triggers include:
- Dust mites in bedding
- Pollen entering through open windows
- Pet dander accumulating on furniture
- Chemicals in nighttime skincare products
- Fragrances in laundry detergents used on bedding
How can you identify if allergies are causing your itchy eyes at night? Pay attention to other allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, or congestion that may accompany the eye irritation. If you notice a pattern of these symptoms occurring primarily in the evening or when you’re in your bedroom, allergies are likely the cause.
The Impact of Eye Strain on Nighttime Discomfort
Eye strain is another significant factor that can contribute to itchy eyes at night. In our digital age, many people spend long hours staring at screens, which can lead to cumulative eye fatigue by the end of the day. This strain may manifest as itchiness, especially when you’re trying to relax before bed.
What are the signs of eye strain beyond itchiness? Look out for these additional symptoms:
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Difficulty concentrating
To alleviate eye strain, consider implementing the 20-20-20 rule throughout your day: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice can significantly reduce the cumulative strain on your eyes.
Blepharitis: An Often Overlooked Cause of Eyelid Irritation
Blepharitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelids, which can lead to significant discomfort, especially at night. This condition occurs when the oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged or irritated.
What causes blepharitis? Several factors can contribute to this condition:
- Bacterial infections
- Demodex mites (microscopic parasites that live in hair follicles)
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Allergies
- Rosacea
How can you identify blepharitis? Look for these symptoms:
- Redness and swelling of the eyelids
- Flaking or crusting at the base of the eyelashes
- A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
- Increased eye irritation upon waking
If you suspect you have blepharitis, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend a combination of eyelid hygiene practices, warm compresses, and in some cases, topical or oral medications.
Dry Eyes: A Progressive Problem Throughout the Day
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can worsen as the day progresses, leading to increased discomfort and itchiness by nighttime. This occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.
Why do dry eyes often feel worse at night? Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:
- Decreased blinking while focusing on screens or reading
- Exposure to air conditioning or heating throughout the day
- Dehydration accumulating over the course of the day
- Natural decrease in tear production as we age
To combat dry eyes, consider using preservative-free artificial tears throughout the day. Additionally, staying well-hydrated and using a humidifier in your bedroom can help maintain moisture in your eyes overnight.
Conjunctivitis: When Itchy Eyes Signal an Infection
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva – the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. While conjunctivitis can cause itching at any time of day, the discomfort may become more noticeable at night when other distractions are minimized.
How can you differentiate conjunctivitis from other causes of itchy eyes? Look for these distinctive symptoms:
- Redness in the white of the eye
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Increased tear production
- Discharge that may crust over the eyelashes, especially after sleep
- A gritty feeling in the eye
Is conjunctivitis always contagious? Not necessarily. While bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are highly contagious, allergic conjunctivitis is not. However, if you suspect you have any form of conjunctivitis, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent spreading the infection and to receive appropriate treatment.
Effective Treatments for Nighttime Eye Itching
Addressing itchy eyes at night requires a multifaceted approach tailored to the underlying cause. Here are some effective treatments and remedies:
For Allergies:
- Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops
- Oral antihistamines
- Cool compresses to reduce inflammation
- Allergen-proof bedding covers
- HEPA air purifiers in the bedroom
For Eye Strain:
- Blue light filtering glasses for evening screen use
- Adjusting screen brightness and contrast
- Regular eye exercises and breaks
- Proper lighting for nighttime reading
For Dry Eyes:
- Preservative-free artificial tears
- Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
- Bedroom humidifiers
- Avoiding direct airflow from fans or air conditioning
For Blepharitis:
- Warm compresses applied to closed eyelids
- Gentle eyelid scrubs with baby shampoo or specialized cleansers
- Topical antibiotics if prescribed by a doctor
When implementing these treatments, consistency is key. It may take several days or even weeks to notice significant improvement, so patience and persistence are important.
When to Seek Professional Help for Itchy Eyes
While many cases of itchy eyes can be managed with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. Consider consulting an eye care professional if:
- Symptoms persist for more than a week despite home treatment
- You experience vision changes or severe eye pain
- There’s discharge from the eye, especially if it’s yellow or green
- You have a known autoimmune condition or are immunocompromised
- The itching is accompanied by light sensitivity or headaches
How should you prepare for your appointment? Keep a symptom diary noting when the itching occurs, any potential triggers, and the effectiveness of any treatments you’ve tried. This information can be invaluable to your healthcare provider in determining the cause and best course of treatment for your itchy eyes.
Preventing Nighttime Eye Irritation: Lifestyle and Environmental Changes
Prevention is often the best medicine when it comes to managing itchy eyes at night. By making certain lifestyle and environmental changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing eye discomfort:
Bedroom Modifications:
- Use hypoallergenic pillowcases and bedding
- Keep pets out of the bedroom
- Vacuum and dust regularly, including under the bed
- Use window filters to reduce pollen entry
Evening Routine Adjustments:
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can increase irritation
- Remove eye makeup thoroughly before bed
- Limit screen time in the hour before sleep
- Practice good eyelid hygiene, especially if prone to blepharitis
Dietary Considerations:
- Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
- Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support eye health
- Consider reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, which can contribute to dehydration
By implementing these preventive measures, you can create an environment that supports eye comfort and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of nighttime eye itching.
The Role of Sleep Quality in Eye Health
The relationship between sleep quality and eye health is bidirectional – poor sleep can exacerbate eye discomfort, and eye irritation can disrupt sleep. Understanding this connection is crucial for managing nighttime eye itching effectively.
How does sleep affect eye health?
- During sleep, your eyes produce tears and oils that help cleanse and nourish the eye surface
- Lack of sleep can lead to increased eye strain and dryness
- Poor sleep quality can weaken the immune system, making eyes more susceptible to infections
To improve both sleep quality and eye comfort, consider these strategies:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Create a dark, cool sleeping environment
- Practice relaxation techniques before bed to reduce overall stress
- Use a sleep mask to protect eyes from irritants and provide complete darkness
By prioritizing good sleep hygiene, you not only improve your overall health but also support the natural processes that keep your eyes comfortable and healthy.
Innovative Therapies and Future Treatments for Chronic Eye Itching
As research in ophthalmology and allergy medicine progresses, new treatments for chronic eye itching are emerging. These innovative therapies offer hope for those who have not found relief through traditional methods:
Immunotherapy:
Allergen immunotherapy, either through sublingual tablets or allergy shots, can help desensitize the immune system to specific allergens over time. This long-term approach can significantly reduce allergic reactions, including eye itching.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy:
Originally used in dermatology, IPL therapy is showing promise in treating dry eye syndrome and meibomian gland dysfunction, both of which can contribute to eye itching. The treatment uses light pulses to stimulate the oil-producing glands around the eyes.
Biologic Medications:
For severe allergic eye conditions, biologic drugs that target specific components of the immune system are being developed. These medications can offer more targeted relief with potentially fewer side effects than traditional antihistamines.
Nanotechnology in Eye Drops:
Researchers are exploring the use of nanoparticles in eye drops to improve drug delivery and effectiveness. This technology could lead to longer-lasting relief from eye itching with less frequent application.
While these treatments are exciting, it’s important to note that many are still in various stages of research and may not be widely available yet. Always consult with an eye care professional to discuss the most appropriate and current treatment options for your specific situation.
In conclusion, nighttime eye itching can be a complex issue with various potential causes. By understanding the underlying factors, implementing appropriate treatments, and making lifestyle adjustments, most people can find significant relief. Remember that persistent or severe symptoms warrant professional medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right approach, you can look forward to more comfortable nights and healthier eyes.
Itchy Eyes at Night: Causes, Treatment, and More
Why do my eyes itch at night?
Itchy eyes may be uncomfortable, especially when you’re trying to fall asleep. There are several reasons you may notice itchy eye symptoms only at night. One reason may be because you’re not as busy as you are at other points during the day. You may be more in tune with your body in the evening when things are quieter.
Working outside of your home in the daytime may mean you’re exposed to different allergens in your home at night. For example, at the office you might have air conditioning. At home, you may open windows to get a cool breeze — and possibly pollen — from outdoors.
Your itchy eyes and other symptoms could have a root cause. You may do activities at night you don’t do during the day that expose you to certain allergens. Long hours of computer work may strain your eyes and make them itchy by the end of the day. Your eyes may even be dry throughout the day and get worse by nighttime, causing itching.
Allergic reaction
An allergic reaction of your eyes or eyelids is a likely cause of your itching. You may be exposed to different personal care products before bed that you don’t use the rest of the day. Or maybe you are allergic to the down in your pillow or the dust on your nightstand.
Some possible triggers include:
- soaps, detergents, and other chemicals
- acids and alkalis
- dust, pollen, and dander
- drying agents
- cigarette smoke, car exhaust, and perfume
- eye makeup, such as eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara
- personal care products like hair dye, nail polish, etc.
- sunscreen
Very thin skin covers your eyelids. Your eyes and eyelids are sensitive to different allergens in your environment. You may not develop itching on another part of your body even if you are allergic to something that bothers your eyes.
Eyestrain
Eyestrain is another possible cause of burning, itchy eyes. Common causes of eyestrain include looking at digital screens all day or driving long distances. Eyestrain may develop at night if you are trying to read in a dimly lit spot or if you haven’t stopped to rest your eyes. Being stressed or tired may cause you develop eyestrain. The air from heating or air-conditioning may also strain your eyes and make them itch.
Other symptoms of eyestrain include:
- blurred vision
- headache
- sore neck, shoulders, or back
- sensitivity to light
- trouble concentrating
- trouble keeping your eyes open
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is another condition that can cause eyelid inflammation. This condition occurs when the oil glands on the hair follicles of your eyelids become clogged and irritated. There are several different causes, including:
- eyelash mites
- bacterial infection
- medication side effects
- malfunctioning oil glands
Along with itching, you may experience crusting around your eyelids and eyelashes. Your symptoms may be worse at night.
Dry eyes
Dry eyes tend to get worse throughout the day, leading to scratching and other sensations at night. You may start out feeling fine when you wake up, but as the day progresses, you’ll notice dryness, grittiness, or even burning. These symptoms can be worse if you wear contact lenses.
You may also experience:
- stringy mucous around your eyes
- sensitivity to light
- redness in your eyes
- feeling like you have something in your eyes
- trouble wearing contacts
- watery eyes
- trouble with driving at night
- blurred vision
- eye fatigue
While dry eyes can sometimes cause itching, the sensation you will usually feel is more of a burning or scratching. Mild cases of dry eye may feel better if you use artificial tears throughout the day. Your doctor can prescribe medications for more severe cases.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is another cause of itchy eyes. If you have this common eye disease, your eyes will usually be very red and itch all day vs. just at night. Pinkeye is very contagious, so you should see your doctor right away if you think you have it.
If you’ve noticed that your eyes are itchy at night, you may want to visit your doctor or ophthalmologist. After explaining your symptoms, your doctor will ask for your medical history and give you a physical exam.
Patch tests can be useful with diagnosing allergies. Your doctor may also examine your eyelids and swab your skin to test any oil or crust that has accumulated. It may be helpful for you to write down anything in your nightly routine that might be triggering your itching. You can share this information with your doctor to help with diagnosis.
The treatment for itchy eyes at night depends on the underlying cause.
Allergies
There are many ways to help treat allergies in your eyes. You can use artificial tears, decongestant eye drops, or even oral antihistamines. You can buy many of these items over the counter at your local drug store.
Your doctor may also prescribe stronger medications if your symptoms are severe. These may include:
- eye drops, including decongestants, antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, corticosteroids, and NSAIDs
- allergy shots
- oral antihistamines, though these medications may dry eyes and make them feel worse
Eyestrain
Treatment for eyestrain involves lifestyle measures, like taking breaks from activities that tax your eyes.
You may also want to follow the 20-20-20 Rule, which means you take a break every 20 minutes from activities like computer work. Use that time to look off into the distance 20 feet for 20 seconds, which is how long it takes your eyes to relax.
Blepharitis
Treatment for blepharitis depends on the type you have. What’s most important is to keep your eyelids and eyelashes clean and free of crusting. You can use a warm compress to loosen crusting. You may also use water and baby shampoo to clean around your eyes. Your doctor may need to prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.
If your eyes are itching at night due to an allergic reaction, your outlook is good. Once you’ve identified the substance that is causing your itching, you can avoid it.
If eyestrain is causing your itching, your outlook is also good. You can work with your doctor to identify and change any habits that may be contributing to strain.
Blepharitis rarely goes away entirely, but you can manage your symptoms by practicing good hygiene and trying different treatments prescribed by your doctor.
You may want to keep a log of the things that seem to trigger your itchy eyes at night. Identifying what may be causing the itching can help you avoid it and lessen or stop your symptoms.
Prevention for allergic reactions:
- Keep your windows shut to keep pollen out of your home in the evening hours. A fan or air conditioner can keep you cool.
- Slip some mite-proof bedding onto your bed to lessen your exposure to dust mites.
- Use a dehumidifier to lessen the mold in your home.
- Wash your hands before removing contact lenses, after petting animals, or after touching anything you suspect might be bothering your eyes.
- Wash your face to remove eye makeup and other cosmetics before heading to bed.
Prevention for eyestrain:
- Limit the time you spend looking at screens throughout the day.
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule if you have to spend long periods of time on your computer or other devices.
- Only read in well-lit areas and take frequent breaks to give your eyes a rest.
- Wear glasses or contacts if you need them to read or work at the computer. Resist squinting to see better.
- Consider using artificial tears to lubricate your eyes.
Blepharitis is a chronic condition, so you may not be able to prevent it. Keeping your eyes clean can ease flare-ups and symptoms. You may want to skip wearing makeup for a while. Using artificial tears and controlling any dandruff or mites can also help.
Natural and Home Treatment Options
Sore Eye Remedies: Natural and Home Treatment Options
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Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O. D. — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on March 8, 2019
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Sore eyes
Sore eyes aren’t uncommon. Typical irritants that often cause mild soreness in the eyes include:
- overexposure to electronic screens
- exposure to sun
- exposure to airborne irritants
- excessive rubbing
- contact lenses
- swimming in chlorinated water
- cigarette smoke
Severely sore eyes
If your eyes severely sore or painful, it might be a sign of a more serious condition, such as:
- dry eyes
- allergies
- dehydration
- conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- blepharitis
- iritis
- scleritis
- keratitis
- uveitis
- optic neuritis
- blocked tear duct
- chalazion
- corneal abrasion
- foreign object in eye
- glaucoma
Don’t take chances with your eyes and ignore symptoms. Visit your eye doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment started.
There are a number of simple home remedies for sore eyes. Here are a few of them:
Cold compress
Place a cold washcloth over your closed eyes two to three times a day for five minutes at a time to manage pain and swelling.
Castor oil
Eye drops containing castor oil may help reduce eye irritation. Place one drop in each eye before going to bed, and then do it again in the morning. Try Refresh Optive Advanced eye drops.
Aloe vera
Because of aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, some natural healers recommend using it to alleviate sore eyes.
Mix 1 teaspoon of fresh aloe vera gel into 2 tablespoons of cold water, and then soak cotton rounds in the mixture. Place the soaked cotton rounds on your closed eyes for 10 minutes. Do this twice a day.
When experiencing eye pain, make an appointment with your doctor if:
- You’ve recently had eye surgery.
- You’ve recently had an eye injection.
- You’ve had eye surgery in the past.
- You wear contact lenses.
- You have a weakened immune system.
- You’ve been taking eye medication for two or three days and the pain hasn’t improved.
Some symptoms need immediate medical attention. Seek emergency medical help if:
- Your pain was caused by a foreign object hitting or been lodged in your eye.
- Your pain was caused by a chemical being splashed in your eye.
- Your eye pain is accompanied by fever, headache, or unusual light sensitivity.
- You have a sudden vision change.
- You start seeing halos around lights.
- Your eye is swelling, or there’s swelling around your eye.
- You’re unable to keep your eye open.
- You’re having trouble moving your eye.
- You have blood or pus coming from your eye(s).
To avoid certain types of eye soreness, there are a number of actions you can take. Here are some you can start today:
- Try not to touch or rub your eyes.
- Wear sunglasses when outside.
- Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
- Get sufficient sleep to rest your body and eyes.
- Every 20 minutes, take your eyes off your computer screen or TV to focus for 20 seconds on an object in the distance.
The eye is a delicate and complex organ. If your eyes are sore and you’re concerned, see your eye doctor for a diagnosis. They can help you find relief from sore eyes and help you prevent it from happening again.
Last medically reviewed on August 14, 2018
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
- Fiore DC, et al. (2010). Pain in the quiet (not red) eye.
aafp.org/afp/2010/0701/p69.html - Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015). Dry eyes.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863 - Rahmani AH, et al. (2015). Aloe vera: Potential candidate in health management via modulation of biological activities. DOI:
10.4103/2F0973-7847.162118
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Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O.D. — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on March 8, 2019
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Allergy eye drops – medicine for the eyes. Portal vseozrenii – all about eye drops and tablets.
Article updated – 12/28/2019
Eye allergy can manifest itself in a wide variety of forms.
Contents
- Eye allergies
- Vasoconstrictor drops
- Antihistamine eye drops
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops for allergies
- Mast cell stabilizers 900 10
- Tear substitutes
- Rules for instillation of eye drops
1/7
Types of eye allergies
Eye allergies most often occur in the form of allergic dermatitis and conjunctivitis th various forms. The most common are allergic dermatitis and conjunctivitis.
However, the development of an allergic reaction can affect all the membranes of the eye and in severe cases cause damage to the internal structures of the eye (keratitis, uveitis, swelling of the optic nerve, etc.)
Allergy eye drops are liquid medicines used to treat local (eye) allergy symptoms.
2/7
Vasoconstrictor drops
Prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drops can cause a “withdrawal effect”
These allergy eye drops reduce redness and swelling of the conjunctiva by constricting the vessels of the conjunctiva.
Do not use these eye drops for more than two or three days for allergies. Prolonged use of them can create a “withdrawal effect” – a sharp return of all allergy symptoms after the withdrawal of eye drops.
Eye drops included in this group: “Vizin”, “Octilia”, “Ocumetil”.
3/7
Antihistamine eye drops
These eye drops block the accumulation of histamine, which is one of the main components of allergies in the body. They are an effective remedy for itching and swelling.
Antihistamine eye drops are generally recommended as the first treatment for eye allergies
This group includes the following allergy eye drops: allergodil, opatanol, spersallerg, lecrolin.
4/7
Anti-inflammatory eye drops for allergies
Corticosteroid eye drops are sometimes prescribed to relieve acute symptoms of eye allergies
Anti-inflammatory eye drops can be divided into two groups:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to reduce swelling, inflammation, and other allergy symptoms. However, it must be remembered that non-steroidal eye drops can only be used as directed (and under the supervision) of an ophthalmologist.
Corticosteroids.
Corticosteroid eye drops are sometimes prescribed to relieve acute eye allergy symptoms. But due to the development of side effects with long-term use, these eye drops are usually prescribed only for a short time. Eye drops of this group: dexamethasone, prenacid, maxidex.
Both non-steroidal and corticosteroid (also called glucocorticosteroid) drugs have a very large side effect.
5/7
Mast cell stabilizers
Drugs in this group do not start to act immediately, they have a cumulative effect
These drugs cause changes in mast cells (the main cells in allergies), from which histamine is released (one of the main components in allergies).
Medicines of this group do not begin to act immediately – they have a cumulative effect. Therefore, these anti-allergic drugs are started to be used before the allergy season, to reduce the manifestation of allergy symptoms.
This group includes allergy eye drops such as lecrolin, kromhexal, alomid.
6/7
Tears substitutes
needed
Tear substitutes moisturize eyes that become dry, red and irritated when allergic. These eye drops should be refrigerated for extra soothing effect.
Tear substitutes are safe eye drops and can be used for allergies as often as needed.
Tear substitutes include Artificial Tear, Natural Tear, Systane, Vidisik.
7/7
Rules for instilling eye drops
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before instillation
- Check dropper tip for chips or cracks
- Not touch the dropper tip with your hands
- Tilt your head back slightly and use your index finger pull the lower eyelid forward with the finger of one hand
- With the other hand, hold the pipette (dropper) with the tip down, bring it to the eye. Do not touch the tip of the dropper to the eye
- Instill the drops, look upwards, and drop into the pocket of the lower eyelid
- Close the eye drops with a cap. Do not rub or rinse the tip of the eye drops
- Wash your hands to remove medication from your fingers.
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Eye itching drops
Contents
- Why Eyes Itchy
- An Overview of Itchy Eye Drops
- Prevention is the Best Remedy for Itchy Eyes
Itchy Eye Drops can be prescribed under a variety of circumstances that trigger this symptom. Why does itching in the eyes occur? Is there a universal remedy in the form of drops? Or does each case require an individual choice of drug? Details in the article.
Why do eyes itch
Itching in the eyes has different causes associated with the influence of the external environment, due to pathological processes in the visual organ or in the body. An unpleasant sensation interferes with the normal rhythm of life and the quality of vision, because intolerable itching leads to additional symptoms:
- Sensation of dryness of the eye;
- Burning;
- Lachrymation;
- Redness of the cornea;
- Puffiness;
- Soreness;
- Discharge of purulent fluid;
- Sensation of sand or foreign body in the eyes.
Of course, all the listed signs do not always accompany itching in the eyes at the same time. It all depends on the root cause of the uncomfortable condition, which you should find out from an ophthalmologist in order to choose the right drops for itching in the eyes and not aggravate the situation.
Domestic factor
Itching in the eyes can provoke any careless handling of substances or objects in everyday life that are an irritant to the cornea, and the desire to scratch the eyelid occurs as a defensive reaction. Dust with grains of sand, smoke, cleaning powder, dirt and other fragments of the environment, if the eyes are not protected by anything, getting on the mucous membrane, cause its irritation.
Hands involuntarily reach for the itch and can cause even more discomfort if not previously treated with water or a disinfectant solution. In such a situation, eye drops for itching may not be required if the mucosal lesion is minor. It is sufficient to rinse the eyes with a large volume of clean water and leave the object, if necessary.
Eye drops are used if corneal damage is significant. But without a doctor’s examination, it is not worth burying the first drops that come across.
Allergic factor
Most of the complaints of itching in the eyes are patients with various types of allergic manifestations. This symptom can occur not only on the cornea, but also in the nose, on the skin. The eyes are not only itchy, but also watery, redness and swelling occur. There are many reasons, because the body of each person individually reacts to everything that surrounds him:
- Products;
- Household chemicals;
- Cosmetics and hygiene products;
- pollen;
- Animal wool;
- Ultraviolet rays;
- Weather phenomena, eg cold.
Identifying the exact allergen that causes itchy eyes can take time and multiple diagnostic tests. Only eye drops in case of allergic itching will not correct the situation. You need to take an antihistamine.
Itching in the eyes as a side effect
Eyes may itch as a result of overexertion due to prolonged exposure to a computer or phone screen. Prolonged lack of proper sleep can also cause discomfort and be accompanied by a desire to scratch your eyelids.
If overwork becomes chronic, then even eye drops may not help with itching. Rest is required so that no factor of the outside world affects the vision.
Wearing lenses or spectacles for a long time without resting the eyes can lead to dry eyes and itching as a side effect of improper use of ophthalmic accessories. In this case, you need to remove the lenses or glasses and apply moisturizing drops that will help restore the tear secretion and restore moisture to the cornea.
Eye diseases
Itching in different areas of the eyes is a symptom of inflammatory processes or pathological changes in the visual organ:
- Barley;
- Cataract;
- Conjunctivitis;
- Glaucoma.
Drops for itching in the eyes should be selected taking into account the underlying disease, because an unpleasant symptom is only a consequence, not a cause of discomfort. After complex therapy, the desire to scratch your eyes will disappear if the main problem is solved.
In some cases, itching occurs as a result of pathological changes in other parts of the body, at first glance, have nothing to do with vision. Diabetes mellitus, the presence of parasites in the body, liver disorders are conditions that can affect visual acuity and the occurrence of associated symptoms, such as the need to constantly scratch your eyes and experience discomfort.
Whatever is the cause of the described state, you must first determine it. Only after that you can get the correct appointment of eye drops, which will alleviate the condition and completely relieve itching.
An overview of itch eye drops
Eye drops for itch in the eyes should be chosen only at the doctor’s consultation if the symptomatology arose for the first time and it is not completely clear what became the root cause of this condition. Even the most experienced pharmacist cannot help in this matter if the diagnosis is not made.
Moisturizers
The most innocuous are moisturizing drops that only compensate for the lack of tear fluid, but do not have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial or other effects. If the cause of itching in the eyes is infection or pathological changes, then moisturizing drops will relieve an unpleasant symptom only for a short period of time. This is true when a person is in adverse conditions, when dust, smoke, dry air, work at a computer or with paper documents affects the mucous membrane.
An excellent remedy is Oftagel, which forms a protective film on the cornea and prevents it from drying out and itching. Oftan Katahrom, Taufon, Dexamethasone are first aid drugs for the eyes if itching occurs due to dry eye syndrome or overwork. A drop not only moisturizes, but also helps to replenish the supply of vitamins and nutrients that normalize visual acuity.
Allergy Remedies
If allergies are the cause of chronic itchy eyes, the pathology should be treated, not the symptoms. Eye drops are only a link in complex therapy, in which getting rid of the provoking factor is a top priority. Eye drops only help to alleviate the condition and prevent visual impairment.
- Allegard is considered to be a universal remedy that can be used for itching in one or both eyes. In addition to itching in the eyes, it copes with redness, swelling, and lacrimation. Effective for children and adults allergic to animal hair, reaction to new cosmetics;
- Azelastine eye drops are an effective remedy not only for allergies, but also for eye damage with conjunctivitis. The standard regimen is one drop in the morning and evening, unless the ophthalmologist suggests increasing the dosage;
- Opatanol – eye drops that relieve allergic itching in the eyes, if you drip 2 drops twice a day until the discomfort disappears completely;
- Vizin eye drops are among the strong drugs and can only be used as directed by a doctor. They help not only with allergic itching, but also with eye damage during prolonged work with a welding machine. In this case, there is also a desire to scratch your eyes in order to remove a foreign object that is not really there.
Eye drops for viral or bacterial damage
If the eyelids itch due to an inflammatory or bacterial process in the eyes, completely different drops are needed, which will contain an active substance that can not only eliminate itching, but also destroy the pathogenic microflora that caused conjunctivitis, barley and other eye diseases. Each type of disease has a specific scheme and duration of treatment, which can only be prescribed by an ophthalmologist, taking into account the history.
The most popular products include the following pharmaceutical products:
- Levomycetin is an antimicrobial agent that belongs to the group of topical antibiotics. Fights any pathogenic microflora that affects the cornea of the eyes and leads to inflammation or the formation of pus. The active ingredient is chloramphenicol, which inhibits intracellular protein synthesis, preventing bacteria from multiplying. It has a wide spectrum of action on different groups of pathogenic microflora that can penetrate the organs of vision. Effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis, keratitis, blepharitis, which helps to get rid of itching, as a symptom of ophthalmic pathology;
- Floksal is an antibacterial agent used in ophthalmology in patients with diseases such as conjunctivitis, barley, blepharitis, keratitis and other infectious eye lesions. Included in the group of antibiotics, but has no adverse reactions that occur when antibiotics are administered orally. The active substance ofloxacin is not absorbed through the corneal mucosa and does not enter the bloodstream, which eliminates the risk of complications. It is on sale in the form of an eye ointment, which is convenient to use at night for a longer therapeutic effect and eliminate not only itching, but also the root cause of this symptom. In its effect on pathogenic microflora, it is similar to chloramphenicol;
- Ciprolet is an antibacterial agent containing the active ingredient ciprofloxacin, which actively fights any pathogenic microflora;
- Normaks is a remedy that adversely affects microbes of different groups, provoking inflammatory processes in the organs of vision and hearing. Norfloxacin is the active ingredient. Drops help in the fight not only with bacteria, but also with helminthic invasion. The defeat of the body with worms can also provoke itching in the eyes, which is important for the appointment of Normax drops, if such a pathology is detected.
Attention! If itchy eyes occur in a child, then not all types of drops can be used to eliminate discomfort. Sulfacil Sodium, Ophthalmoferon or Naphthyzin will help solve the problem, but only after consulting a doctor and accurately diagnosing the cause.
In most cases, this is a lack of hygiene, when a child touches his eyes with dirty hands and creates conditions for itching or other symptoms.
This is just a small list of eye drops that help eliminate itching, as a symptom of any process in the organ of vision. The choice can only be made by an ophthalmologist, taking into account the clinical picture of a particular patient.
In addition to drops, other remedies may be given to relieve itchy eyes:
- Eye ointment to be applied at night;
- Antihistamines that help relieve not only itching, but also swelling of the eyes, redness;
- Disinfectants to assist in rinsing the eyes before instilling any type of drops.
If the problem that provoked itching in the eyes does not pose a danger of loss or decrease in visual acuity, then it is enough to carry out hygiene procedures and observe how you feel. It is possible that antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs are not needed, but it is advisable to keep moisturizing drops and vitamin complexes for the eyes in your medicine cabinet and take a course.
Prevention is the best remedy for itchy eyes
To spend time identifying the cause of itchy eyes and choosing the right drops, you should follow the simple rules of hygiene that people have been taught since childhood.
- Never touch any area of the face with dirty hands or objects;
- Strengthen the immunity of the whole organism and promptly treat any diseases that may be the reason for the development of ophthalmic pathologies;
- Address allergies by finding out what the allergen is and eliminating it from your life if possible. If it is impossible to get rid of the provoking factor, timely conduct therapy with antihistamines to relieve symptoms;
- Proper selection of lenses and spectacles to avoid itching as a side effect of improper use;
- Do not strain your eyes with a long stay at the computer, telephone, paper sources;
- Avoid places where exacerbation of dry eye syndrome is possible;
- Visit an ophthalmologist regularly to get a complete vision diagnosis and rule out the underlying causes of itching in the eyes.