What causes itchy eyes alongside cold symptoms. How to differentiate between allergies, common cold, COVID-19, and pink eye. When should you seek medical attention for itchy eyes. What are the most effective treatments for itchy eyes associated with different conditions.

Understanding Itchy Eyes: Common Causes and Symptoms

Itchy eyes, medically known as ocular pruritus, affect millions of Americans annually. This irritating condition can stem from various sources, including allergies, infections, and eye strain. Identifying the root cause is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach.

What are the primary symptoms of itchy eyes?

• Redness
• Irritation
• Watery eyes
• Swelling (in some cases)
• Discharge (depending on the cause)

Allergic Conjunctivitis: A Leading Cause of Itchy Eyes

Eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, are often the culprit behind itchy eyes. These allergies can be seasonal or perennial, frequently accompanying nasal allergy symptoms like sneezing and congestion.

What triggers eye allergies?

• Outdoor allergens: Pollen from grass, trees, and ragweed
• Indoor allergens: Pet dander, dust mites, and mold
• Irritants: Cigarette smoke, perfume, and diesel exhaust

How do eye allergies develop? When the body’s immune system becomes sensitized to an allergen, it overproduces histamine to remove the perceived threat. This overreaction leads to symptoms like itchy eyes, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and sometimes skin rashes or hives.

Distinguishing Between Allergies and COVID-19

In the current health climate, it’s crucial to differentiate between allergy symptoms and those of COVID-19. Itchy eyes are not a common symptom of COVID-19, which typically presents with fever (over 100°F), cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue within 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.

Key Differences Between Allergies and COVID-19

• Allergies: Itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose
• COVID-19: Fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue

Is it possible to have both allergies and COVID-19 simultaneously? While rare, it is possible. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or are unsure, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common Cold vs. Allergies: Deciphering the Symptoms

Itchy eyes are not typically associated with the common cold. Understanding the differences between cold and allergy symptoms can help pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.

Cold Symptoms vs. Allergy Symptoms

1. Duration: Cold symptoms usually resolve within 5-10 days, while allergy symptoms can persist for weeks or months.
2. Onset: Cold symptoms develop gradually, while allergy symptoms often appear suddenly.
3. Associated symptoms: Colds may include fever and body aches, which are not common in allergies.

How can you alleviate cold symptoms?

• Stay hydrated
• Get plenty of rest
• Use over-the-counter medications like Curist Mucus Relief (guaifenesin 600 mg)
• Employ a humidifier
• Use cough drops or lozenges

Dry Eye Syndrome: Another Potential Cause of Itchy Eyes

Dry eye syndrome can also lead to itchy eyes. The primary distinction between dry eye and allergic conjunctivitis lies in the intensity of the itching sensation.

How can you treat dry, itchy eyes?

• Apply warm or cold compresses to the eyes
• Use a humidifier to increase ambient moisture
• Utilize over-the-counter lubricating eye drops or artificial tears

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): When to Seek Medical Attention

If your eyes are itchy, red, swollen, painful, and produce a sticky or thick yellow discharge, you may have conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye. This condition can be caused by viruses or bacteria and is highly contagious.

Types of Conjunctivitis and Their Treatments

• Viral conjunctivitis: Usually resolves without treatment in a few days to 2 weeks
• Bacterial conjunctivitis: Requires antibiotic eye drops or ointment prescribed by an ophthalmologist

Can antibiotics treat all types of conjunctivitis? No, antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. They won’t help with viral or allergic conjunctivitis. If you’re unsure about the type of conjunctivitis you have, consult an eye care professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Eye Strain: A Modern Cause of Ocular Discomfort

In our digital age, eye strain has become an increasingly common cause of ocular discomfort, including itchy eyes. Prolonged periods of screen time, whether for work or leisure, can lead to various symptoms.

What are the symptoms of eye strain?

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Blurry vision
• Dry, itchy eyes

Is eye strain permanent? Fortunately, symptoms from eye strain, including itchy eyes, are typically temporary and resolve with adequate rest. However, persistent discomfort should be evaluated by an eye care professional.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Itchy Eyes

While identifying the specific cause of itchy eyes is crucial for targeted treatment, there are several general strategies that can help alleviate discomfort across various conditions.

Lifestyle Modifications for Eye Health

• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
• Use air purifiers: Reduce airborne allergens and irritants in your home
• Implement the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall eye health
• Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays and airborne irritants when outdoors

Natural Remedies for Itchy Eyes

Can natural remedies provide relief for itchy eyes? While not a substitute for medical treatment when necessary, some natural approaches may offer symptomatic relief:

• Cool cucumber slices: Place on closed eyelids to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation
• Chamomile tea bags: Cooled and applied to the eyes, may help reduce itching and inflammation
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Dietary supplements may help improve tear quality and reduce dry eye symptoms
• Aloe vera gel: Applied around the eyes (not in them) may provide a cooling, soothing effect

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments, especially if you have persistent or severe symptoms.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

While many cases of itchy eyes can be managed at home or with over-the-counter treatments, certain situations warrant professional medical attention.

When should you see a doctor for itchy eyes?

• Symptoms persist for more than a week despite home treatment
• You experience severe pain or sensitivity to light
• Your vision becomes blurred or changes in any way
• You have thick, colored discharge from your eyes
• You have a fever or other systemic symptoms alongside eye discomfort
• You have a known eye condition that is worsening

What can you expect during an eye exam for itchy eyes? An eye care professional will typically:

1. Review your medical history and symptoms
2. Examine your eyes using a slit lamp microscope
3. Test your vision if necessary
4. Possibly perform allergy tests if an allergic cause is suspected
5. Recommend appropriate treatment based on the diagnosis

Innovations in Eye Care: Future Treatments for Itchy Eyes

As medical research advances, new treatments for itchy eyes and related conditions continue to emerge. These innovations offer hope for more effective and targeted therapies in the future.

Emerging Treatments and Technologies

• Immunomodulatory drugs: These medications aim to regulate the immune response in allergic conditions, potentially offering long-term relief from itchy eyes caused by allergies.
• Nanotechnology-based eye drops: These advanced formulations may provide more efficient drug delivery and longer-lasting effects for various eye conditions.
• Gene therapy: For certain inherited eye conditions that may cause chronic irritation, gene therapy shows promise in addressing the root cause of symptoms.
• Artificial intelligence in diagnosis: AI-powered tools are being developed to assist in the quick and accurate diagnosis of eye conditions, potentially leading to faster and more precise treatment.

How might these innovations change the landscape of eye care? As these technologies continue to develop, we may see more personalized treatment approaches, improved quality of life for those with chronic eye conditions, and potentially even preventative measures for common causes of itchy eyes.

The Impact of Environmental Factors on Eye Health

Our environment plays a significant role in eye health and comfort. Understanding and mitigating environmental risk factors can help reduce the incidence of itchy eyes and related symptoms.

Environmental Considerations for Eye Health

• Air quality: Poor air quality, whether outdoors due to pollution or indoors due to allergens, can significantly impact eye comfort.
• Screen time: The increasing prevalence of digital devices in our daily lives has led to a rise in digital eye strain.
• Climate change: Shifting weather patterns and longer allergy seasons may contribute to increased eye irritation for many people.
• Occupational hazards: Certain professions may expose individuals to eye irritants more frequently.

How can we protect our eyes from environmental factors?

1. Use appropriate protective eyewear in hazardous environments
2. Invest in air purifiers for home and office spaces
3. Take regular breaks from screen time
4. Stay informed about local air quality and pollen counts
5. Maintain good indoor air quality through regular cleaning and proper ventilation

By being mindful of these environmental factors and taking proactive steps to mitigate their impact, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing itchy eyes and other ocular discomforts.

The Role of Nutrition in Eye Health and Comfort

While often overlooked, nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health and potentially reducing the incidence of itchy eyes and related symptoms. A well-balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can support overall ocular health and function.

Key Nutrients for Eye Health

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these may help reduce inflammation and support tear production.
• Vitamin A: Essential for eye function, found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that may help prevent cataracts, found in citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers.
• Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that protects eye cells, found in nuts, seeds, and avocados.
• Zinc: Important for retinal health, found in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
• Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These carotenoids may protect against age-related eye diseases, found in leafy greens and egg yolks.

Can dietary changes improve eye comfort? While nutrition alone may not cure chronic eye conditions, a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can support overall eye health and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms like itchy eyes.

Hydration and Eye Health

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining eye comfort and preventing dry eye syndrome, which can contribute to itchy eyes. How much water should you drink for optimal eye health? While individual needs vary, aiming for 8-10 glasses of water per day is a good general guideline. Remember, other factors like climate, physical activity, and overall health can influence your hydration needs.

By focusing on a nutrient-rich diet and staying well-hydrated, you can support your eye health from the inside out, potentially reducing the likelihood of experiencing uncomfortable symptoms like itchy eyes.

Allergies, Cold, COVID, or Pink Eye? – Curist

By Deni Hui, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy

Curist delivers FDA-approved allergy medicines to your door at half the price of traditional brands. We hope everyone stays safe and healthy during this time.

Nothing is more irritating than the feeling that there is something in your eye. If your eyes are itchy, red, and irritated, you may be wondering what might have caused it. Knowing the cause of your itchy eyes can help you find the best treatment and get some relief right away. Continue reading to find the source of your itchy eyes and the best remedy for you!

Itchy eyes, also known as ocular pruritus, are a very common problem and affect millions of Americans. Itchy eyes can be caused by a number of reasons including allergies, infection, and strain. If your eyes itch and are red, and you don’t see anything in them, it could be allergies. Symptoms of eye allergies can occur independently but usually accompany the sneezing, sniffling or stuffy nose related to nasal allergies.

Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, whether seasonal or year-round, are often the cause of itchy eyes. Outdoor allergens such as pollens from grass, trees, and ragweeds, indoor allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold, and irritants such as cigarette smoke, perfume and diesel exhaust can all contribute to eye allergies. 

Eye allergies develop when our body’s immune system becomes sensitized and overreacts to an allergen in the environment that typically causes no harm in most people. When our body’s immune system overproduces histamine, a chemical used to remove the allergen from our body, it can lead to unpleasant symptoms including itchy eyes, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, skin rashes, and/or hives.

Itchy eyes are not a common symptom of COVID-19. Common coronavirus symptoms include fever (> 100 F), cough, shortness of breath, and tiredness within 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. COVID symptoms do not cause uncomfortable, itchy eyes.  

Understanding the difference between allergies and COVID symptoms may also help you determine what is causing your itchy eyes.

Itchy eyes are not a common symptom of a cold. Cold symptoms typically resolve within 5 to 10 days, while allergy symptoms may last several weeks to several months.

The best tips for getting over a cold are to drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest. In addition, you can use Curist Mucus Relief (guaifenesin 600 mg), a humidifier, and cough drops or lozenges to help relieve cold symptoms and to stop constant coughing.

Since symptoms of a cold do overlap with allergies, understanding the difference between colds and allergies will also help determine the root cause of your itchy eyes.

Itchy eyes can also be caused by a condition called the dry eye syndrome. The main difference between symptoms of dry eye and allergic conjunctivitis is the severity of itching of your eyes. While itching may occur with dry eyes, it is usually more intense with allergic conjunctivitis. If you are experiencing itchy eyes, watery eyes, runny nose, and/or sneezing, your itchy eyes are likely due to allergic conjunctivitis.

Dry, itchy eyes can generally be treated by applying warm or cold compresses to the eye and using a humidifier or over-the-counter lubricating eye drops/artificial tears to keep the outer part of your eyes moist.

If your eyes are itchy, red, swollen (inflamed), painful and have a sticky or thick yellow discharge, you may have conjunctivitis which is also known as pink eye. Pink eye is a common eye infection in children and adults and can be caused by a virus or bacteria. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are very contagious. In most cases, viral conjunctivitis will get better without treatment in a few days to 2 weeks. Treating bacterial conjunctivitis, on the other hand, requires an antibiotic prescription from your ophthalmologist. Bacterial pink eye can usually be treated with an antibiotic eye drop or ointment. It is important to keep in mind that antibiotics do not treat an infection caused by a virus or by allergy. If you are unsure which type of conjunctivitis (bacterial or viral) you have, consult your ophthalmologist first who can help select the best treatment option for you.

Itchy eyes can be a symptom of eye strain. Eye strain can be brought on by stress or even just by overstraining your eyes (for example, working at a computer, playing video games, or driving for many hours). Some of the symptoms may also include headache, dizziness, blurry vision, and dry, itchy eyes. Most of these symptoms are temporary and will typically go away if you rest your eyes. Symptoms from eye strain, including itchy eyes, will not cause permanent eye damage.

If your eyes and roof of mouth are itchy, and these symptoms occur around the same time each year for several weeks, seasonal allergies are most likely the cause. To reduce your exposure to outdoor allergens (pollen, mold, or smoke) which will help reduce allergy symptoms, limit early morning activities, keep windows closed, and wear a mask while outdoors, if possible. Additionally, you can use antihistamines like Curist Allergy Relief (levocetirizine) or nasal sprays such as Curist Allergy Nasal Spray (fluticasone propionate 50 mcg) at least 1 week before symptoms typically occur to help with allergy symptoms.

If your eyes and throat are itchy, and these symptoms are accompanied by watery eyes, sneezing, congestion, or itchy nose, seasonal allergies are most likely the cause. Oftentimes, breathing in outdoor allergens such as pollen, mold, or smoke can irritate our bodies and cause our immune system to react. Depending on what allergens are in the air, seasonal allergies typically peak in the spring and fall. Besides reducing exposure to outdoor allergens, you can also use antihistamines like Curist Allergy Relief (levocetirizine) or nasal sprays such as Curist Allergy Nasal Spray (fluticasone propionate 50 mcg) at least 1 week before symptoms typically occur to help relieve allergy symptoms. 

If you are sneezing and have itchy eyes, this can be due to allergies or a cold. If your symptoms last for less than 2 weeks, you most likely have a cold which can be resolved with plenty of rest and hydration. If your symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks and occur around the same time every year, your itchy eyes are most likely due to seasonal allergies. You can use Curist Drip-Drop Duo at least 1 week before symptoms typically occur and during allergy season to help prevent allergy symptoms.

There are several different options for treating itchy eyes depending on the cause.

Treatment options for itchy eyes include:

• Bacterial or Viral Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): In general, practice good hygiene such as washing hands frequently and using separate towels. If you have viral conjunctivitis, most cases do not require antibiotic treatment and are self-limited. If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, consult your ophthalmologist as you may need antibiotic treatment.
• Anaphylaxis: If your itchy eyes occur with severe anaphylaxis symptoms like difficulty breathing, facial swelling, rapid heartbeat, or loss of consciousness, use an EpiPen immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
• Cold: If a cold causes your itchy eyes, symptoms should resolve within 2 weeks, but you can use Curist Mucus Relief Max (guaifenesin 1200mg) to help reduce congestion and mucus in the meantime. In addition, get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
• COVID-19: If you suspect COVID-19 is causing your itchy eyes, get tested and consult your doctor if necessary.

If seasonal allergies cause your itchy eyes and other mild symptoms, consider oral antihistamines such as the Curist Allergy Relief (levocetirizine) and non-medical allergy prevention tips.

Is it a cold or allergies?

A runny, yet stuffy nose. An annoying cough. A scratchy throat. Something’s settling in, but at this time of year, is it a cold or seasonal allergies?

Since both the common cold virus and allergies can linger year-round, flare up more regularly during certain times of the year and share similar symptoms, it can be hard to know exactly what’s happening when the sniffling starts.

Some estimates show that people in the U.S. suffer from 1 billion colds each year. And when it comes to allergies, as many as 30% of adults and 40% of children have them.

So, how can you tell the difference between cold symptoms and seasonal allergy symptoms? Here’s what you need to know.

Allergies vs. colds: A side-by-side look at the common signs

While seasonal allergies and colds share some of the same symptoms, how your symptoms feel and how common they are can be unique. Here’s a side-by-side chart comparing allergy and cold symptoms that gives an overview of the similarities and differences.

How you can tell the difference between cold and seasonal allergy symptoms

With both allergies and colds, it’s typical to have congestion or a runny nose, and to sneeze often. You may also feel tired and drowsy. But there are several other symptoms that don’t often overlap between allergies and a cold. Here are some of the telltale differences between cold symptoms and allergy symptoms.

If you have allergies, your symptoms will flare up at certain times throughout the year when the allergens you’re sensitive to are present. For example, if you have a tree pollen allergy, your symptoms will first appear in the early spring.

This also means that your symptoms can last for several weeks until that particular allergy season has ended. To put that into perspective, colds usually only last about a week.

Cold viruses are present all year, so you can catch one at any time. However, the winter cold season is when getting sick is more likely.

2. Allergies do not cause fevers

People often wonder if allergies can cause a fever. The answer is no. Allergies cannot cause a fever, though you could have an allergy flare-up at the same time you’re experiencing a fever from an infection. For example, since allergies tend to cause stuffy noses, they’re also considered risk factors for sinus infections. Sinus infections happen when mucus gets trapped in the sinuses, allowing bacteria or viruses to grow.

With a cold, your temperature can run warmer, but typically it will be less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

While coughing is often a symptom of both allergies and colds, the type of cough for each is different. A cold cough is wet and hacking, and typically produces mucus or phlegm that gets progressively thicker, often taking on a green or yellow tinge.

Allergies can cause a cough that feels like you have a tickle in your throat. That’s because allergens often irritate the lining of your nose, which triggers your nasal passages to create a watery mucus. This can drip out of your nose and down the back of your throat, creating that tickling sensation. This is referred to as post-nasal drip.

Allergies have a significant itch factor. If you’re experiencing itchy eyes, ears, nose or throat, it’s almost certainly allergies. That’s because the same allergens that can cause other symptoms, like sneezing and coughing, can also affect the lining of your eyes. This can lead to dry eyes, triggering redness, itching and burning.

The only ache you may feel with allergies is a headache from all that congestion. Allergies can cause a sore throat if there’s enough irritation from post-nasal drip and coughing, but if you’re experiencing a sore throat or mild body aches, they’re more likely a sign of a bad cold.

Can allergies cause chills? No. If you have chills, it’s more likely you have a cold, the flu or another infection (depending on your other symptoms).

The common cold, seasonal allergies and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 all affect your respiratory system, which means they have several symptoms in common. Some of those shared symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose (congestion)
• Cough
• Scratchy or sore throat
• Headache
• Tiredness

Coughs caused by allergies, RSV or COVID-19 are usually dry, but COVID-19 may cause persistent coughing that can leave you short of breath.

For a closer look at how to tell the difference between other types of conditions, check out these other helpful resources:

• COVID-19 symptoms vs. flu symptoms
• Cold symptoms vs. flu symptoms
• Flu symptoms in kids
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Sinus infections vs. colds
• Allergy vs. asthma in children
• Allergy symptoms vs. COVID-19 symptoms

When you start feeling icky, some simple home remedies can provide temporary relief. For starters, try to get more rest. Both allergies and colds can cause tiredness, so listen to your body and take it easy.

Also, take advantage of saltwater to soothe irritated nasal passages and scratchy or sore throats.

For your nose, use a neti pot. A neti pot can be picked up at any local drugstore or online, and typically comes with packets to mix with warm, distilled water to create a saltwater solution to pour through your nasal passages.

For your throat, simply mix a quarter or half teaspoon of table salt into an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Take a sip and gargle for a few seconds like you would with mouthwash. Then spit and repeat until the solution is gone. You can do this a couple times a day.

Use over-the-counter medications to help relieve and manage symptoms

Cold medications

If you think you have a cold, and you’re experiencing a slight fever, headache or muscle aches, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) – as long as you’re not allergic to these medications. These medicines can help lower your temperature and provide some pain relief.

If your child is the one with cold symptoms, make sure you’ve spoken to their doctor about which medications are safe to administer, and follow pain reliever dosing instructions very carefully.

Warning: Do not give aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) to children or teenagers who have the flu, as it comes with a small risk of causing the potentially fatal Reye’s Syndrome.

Seasonal allergy medications

How do you find relief from seasonal allergies? Taking an oral antihistamine can be your first step.

Benadryl is a popular option, but it may cause drowsiness. (And for kids under age 6, it can sometimes cause hyperactivity.) But newer medications like Claritin, Allegra, Xyzal and Zyrtec – and lower-cost generic versions – have reduced this side effect.

There are also antihistamines available in the form of eye drops to help those itchy, watery eyes. One option is called Zatidor (ketotifen).

Can antihistamines work for cold symptoms, too? Technically, yes. Antihistamines help relieve congestion symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing and itchy, teary eyes. So if you’re experiencing any of those symptoms during a cold, an antihistamine can help.

Medications to help with colds and allergies

Whether you’re experiencing cold or allergy symptoms, there are a couple treatments you can find at your local drug store:

• Nasal spray (like Flonase and Nasacort) to bring down inflammation in your nose and sinuses.
• Decongestants (like Sudafed) can relieve congestion when allergies are at their worst. But they can have other side effects, so they should only be used short-term when allergies are severe. Do not take if you have certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure or a heart condition.

Talk with a doctor or clinician to create a personalized treatment plan

If you aren’t sure if it’s a cold or allergies, or if your symptoms are severe or long-lasting, it’s best to connect with a care provider to get an official diagnosis and treatment plan.

If your allergy symptoms are left untreated, you could become more prone to getting sinus infections or other upper respiratory infections, or they may lead to poor asthma control.

Also, a common cold can turn severe. So if your cold has had you laid up longer than a day or two, get in touch with your doctor. You have a couple options:

• Make a primary care appointment – Meet with your primary care doctor or a clinician who can diagnose and treat hundreds of conditions. They can also connect you with an allergist or an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose and throat doctor) if needed.
• Start a Virtuwell visit – Don’t want to wait for an appointment? Virtuwell offers care for more than 60 common conditions 24/7. Just answer a few questions, and you’ll get your diagnosis and treatment plan from a board-certified nurse practitioner for $59 or less, depending on your insurance.

Burning in the eyes – the causes of occurrence, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment

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• org/ListItem”> Symptoms
• Burning eyes

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Barley on the eyes

Conjunctivitis

Blepharitis

Keratitis

Uveitis

Ophthalmic rosacea

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March 23

Burning in the eyes: causes of occurrence, in which diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

Definition

Burning in the eyes, a feeling of sand, itching are extremely unpleasant symptoms that can occur as a result of severe overstrain, prolonged sitting at the computer, adverse environmental conditions, and against the background of various diseases and pathological processes.

Trying to get rid of burning eyes on your own can only aggravate the condition, especially when the cause is not clear.

Burning eyes

There is no generally accepted classification of conditions and diseases manifested by a burning sensation in the eyes, therefore, one should focus on the causes that cause this condition – they can be endogenous and exogenous.

Possible causes of burning eyes

Strong wind, smoke or a large amount of dust is a fairly common cause of burning in the eyes. If the eyes calm down after the action of the irritating factor ceases, there is no cause for concern.

Burning eyes may be a reaction to chemicals such as shampoo, soap, chlorinated pool water, cosmetics, etc.

Prolonged wearing of contact lenses can also cause discomfort, which a person describes as burning or grit in the eyes.

Eye discomfort (burning combined with itching and redness) often accompanies allergic reactions to smog, smoke, dust, mold, pollen, or pet dander. However, even clean, but hot and dry air can cause such an unpleasant symptom – this is due to the fact that the tear film that protects the eyes dries out quickly and does not have time to recover.

If a foreign object gets into the eyes, it can also cause burning, itching and pain.

In some cases, burning signals serious diseases of the organs of vision, which include ophthalmic rosacea (a chronic inflammatory disease that affects various structures of the eye), keratitis (inflammation of the cornea of ​​​​the eye), dry eye syndrome (characterized by a decrease in tear production, which leads to a violation of the natural protection of the eyes) and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid).

Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye) of various etiologies, including those that have become a complication of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza and other infectious diseases, is always manifested by burning in the eyes. A harbinger of conjunctivitis can be the so-called barley (inflammation of the hair follicle of the eyelash or the sebaceous gland of Zeiss).

In rare cases, burning and gritty sensations in the eyes are a symptom of more serious conditions: uveitis (inflammation of the choroid of the eye, which can lead to decreased or even loss of vision) or orbital cellulitis (infectious inflammation of the soft tissues located behind the eye).

Thus, the appearance of a burning sensation in the eyes is characteristic of the following diseases and conditions:

1. Dry eye syndrome.
2. Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye).
3. Blepharitis (inflammation of the skin of the eyelids).
4. Keratitis (inflammatory process in the cornea of ​​the eye).
5. Chronic meibomitis (inflammation of the glands located in the eyelid).
6. Orbital cellulitis.
7. Uveitis.
8. Ophthalmic rosacea.
9. Autoimmune diseases (Sjögren’s syndrome).
10. Incorrect use of contact lenses.
11. Eye injuries.

Doctors to contact for burning eyes

Eye diseases are treated by an ophthalmologist. He prescribes the necessary tests, conducts additional specialized examinations. If an infectious or autoimmune disease is suspected, consultation with an infectious disease specialist and a rheumatologist may be required.

Diagnostics and examinations for burning in the eyes

Careful history taking, taking into account all the patient’s complaints, examination and diagnostic tests will help to establish the correct diagnosis.

• Clinical analysis of blood with an expanded leukocyte formula is necessary to detect inflammatory processes in various infectious diseases.

Clinical blood test: general analysis, leukoformula, ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in the presence of pathological changes)

Synonyms: Complete blood count, UAC. Full blood count, FBC, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential white blood cell count (CBC with diff), Hemogram.
Brief description of the study CBC: general a…

Up to 1 business day

Available with house call

RUB 810

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If an eye injury is suspected, imaging of the brain using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging may be required.

CT scan of the brain and skull

Scanning of the brain, skull and surrounding tissues, which allows diagnosing various pathologies.

RUB 4,890

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MRI of the brain

Safe and informative scanning of brain structures for the diagnosis of its pathologies.

RUB 5,640

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Antinuclear antibodies, IgG, screening, ELISA (Antinuclear antibodies, Antinuclear antibodies, ANAs, EIA)

Synonyms: Antinuclear antibodies, Antinuclear factor; ANF.

Antinuclear Antibody; ANA; antinuclear factor; ANF.

Brief description of the test “Antinuclear antibodies, IgG, screening, I…

Up to 3 working days

Available with house call

RUB 915

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If an allergy is suspected, a blood test is required to identify the allergen.

5 515 RUB

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Culture of eye discharge for microflora, determination of sensitivity to antimicrobials and bacteriophages

Synonyms: Eye Culture, Routine. Bacteria Identification. Antibiotic Susceptibility and Bacteriophage Efficiency testing

Brief description of the study “Sowing of discharge from the eye on the microflora, determination of sensitivity …

Up to 6 business days

Available with house call

RUB 1,660

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What to do if there is a burning sensation in the eyes

You can not rub your eyes, instill eye drops without a doctor’s prescription, wear contact lenses.

If the burning sensation is caused by household chemicals, cosmetics, perfumes getting into the eyes, the first thing to do is to remove contact lenses (if any). Then rinse eyes with moisturizing drops or artificial tears, if available, or use boiled (not hot!) or bottled water. Ordinary tap water can contain various microorganisms, which will only aggravate the situation, since there is a risk of eye infection.

Cold wet compresses on closed eyes also help relieve burning.

If a product comes into contact with the instructions, you should carefully read it, often there are recommendations for such a case.

Grains of sand should be carefully removed from the eye with a corner of a clean tissue or cotton swab, never by hand.

Overwork, prolonged eye strain should be avoided. As a preventive measure for the drying of the cornea, moisturizing eye drops, artificial tears can be used.

Carefully choose cosmetics, especially if you have a history of allergic reactions.

Good hygiene, handwashing, regular cleaning of the room from dust, following all the rules when wearing contact lenses and regular visits to the ophthalmologist for preventive examinations will help to avoid many eye problems.

If the burning sensation in the eyes is persistent, you should seek ophthalmic help, do not self-medicate.

Burning eye treatment

If the burning sensation in your eyes is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor may recommend antibacterial eye drops. The duration of treatment, the frequency of use and the type of drug is determined by the doctor after a thorough examination of the patient and all necessary tests.

Dry eye syndrome therapy includes several directions:

• stimulation of tear production,
• creating conditions for reducing the outflow of lacrimal fluid,
• conditioning to reduce tear film evaporation,
• use of tear substitute drugs.

In addition, the wearing of sunglasses with a high-protection filter is indicated to protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation and the progression of damage to the membranes of the eye.

In rare cases, dry eye syndrome requires surgery.

If the cause of the burning sensation in the eyes is an allergy, antihistamine eye drops or tablets are prescribed.

Sources:

1. Brzhesky V.V. Dry eye syndrome is a disease of civilization: modern diagnostic and treatment options. Journal “Medical Bulletin”. 2013, pp. 114–117.
2. Zhilyakova E.T., Novikova M.Yu., Novikov O.O. To the problem of prevention and treatment of infectious diseases of the eye. Journal “Scientific result”. Vol. 2, No. 3, 2016. P. 1–8.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

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Allergy to cold – causes, symptoms, signs, treatment, prevention of cold allergy

Causes

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Allergy to cold is a rare pathology in which the body begins to produce special proteins that are perceived by the immune system as foreign substances. As a result, an abnormal immune response is triggered, which causes cold allergy symptoms. This disease is also considered a hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to low temperatures on the human body.

Causes and triggers

To date, the exact causes of cold allergy are unknown. However, doctors identify several risk factors that can provoke the development of this pathology:

1. Heredity. Most often, the disease occurs in people of the same family in different generations. The risk group also includes those who have had a variety of allergic diseases since childhood, including bronchial asthma, urticaria, Quincke’s edema.
2. Violations in the work of the vascular system. This should include a violation of microcirculation in the feet and hands, deterioration of blood circulation in the face. All this happens in some diseases: VVD, obesity or overweight, Raynaud’s syndrome.
3. Chronic diseases. Diseases of the stomach or intestines, as well as inflammatory foci in the upper respiratory tract, can provoke an allergic attack to cold.
4. Endocrine disorders that are associated with a dysfunction of the thyroid gland or adrenal glands.
5. High skin sensitivity, as well as dermatological diseases such as neurodermatitis, eczema, psoriasis.

Allergy to cold on the hands can be triggered by constant contact with cold objects, work in the open air. This also includes washing dishes, using detergents, snow removal, visiting pools or open water, the constant presence of ice cream or cold drinks in the diet.

Doctors also consider prolonged use of immunostimulants without prescription and control of a doctor as risk factors for cold allergy in adults. It is noted that the disease usually develops in people with high permeability of the skin and mucous membranes. Antibiotics, muscle relaxants, radiopaque agents, ACE inhibitors can provoke an attack. It is noted that this pathology occurs together with food allergic reactions in the summer.

Symptoms

Cold allergy symptoms can vary from person to person. Most often affected areas of the body in contact with cold air or objects. In some cases, irritation of the mucous membranes may occur, less often symptoms affecting the stomach or intestines.

It is important to understand how an allergy to cold manifests itself. Most often, it looks like hives that affects the skin of the face, lips, or other parts of the body that are not covered by clothing. There are complaints of redness, swelling, severe itching. A lot of vesicles appear on the skin, which are very itchy, and when combed, they become covered with unpleasant, outwardly bloody crusts.

Know what cold allergy looks like. The lesion can sometimes resemble contact dermatitis, with redness and itching present in a limited area. Bubbles in this case appear 1–2 days after exposure to a provoking factor. They will be filled with serous fluid. After opening, small erosions form in their place, which heal without the formation of scar tissue. If an allergy to cold on the skin becomes chronic, then persistent redness and peeling of the epidermis develops with the appearance of cracks and wounds that do not heal for a long time.

An allergy to cold on the face can manifest as cheilitis, an inflammatory disease that affects the red border of the lips. The patient complains of redness, constant dryness, peeling and a feeling of tightness of the skin in this place. A person has to constantly lick his lips, which aggravates the situation several times.

Signs of an allergy to cold may include redness and burning sensation in the eyes, severe tearing. Symptoms may present as vasomotor rhinitis with bouts of sneezing and runny nose, or as bronchospasm with choking and shortness of breath.

Diagnostics

Cold allergy is diagnosed only after a thorough history is taken and an association between symptoms and cold exposure is identified. Diagnosis is carried out by a dermatologist, but consultations of an allergist-immunologist, ENT doctor, ophthalmologist and other doctors may be required according to indications. Allergy to cold in children is detected by a pediatrician based on complaints from parents. To identify true allergies, and cold does not belong to this type, special testing is required using the most common allergens.

Allergies to cold on the feet and other areas of the body are detected with a simple test. A piece of ice is applied to the open area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin for literally 15–30 seconds. If there is no reaction after that, then the patient does not have symptoms of this disease. If redness and itching begin, then an accurate diagnosis is established and treatment is prescribed.

This pathology must be differentiated from other skin diseases. It can resemble dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, look like an allergy to food and drugs, have signs of SARS, flu or colds.

Treatment

Cold allergy treatment is carried out by conservative methods on an outpatient basis. Topical preparations are used to help relieve symptoms. It can be listerine, advantan, flucinar. They should be applied in a thin layer to the affected areas. Means perfectly cope with itching, rashes and swelling of tissues.

Cold Allergy Cream can also be used to heal scratches, cuts and abrasions. Here it is best to choose those drugs that contain panthenol. They soften the skin, relieve inflammation and prevent the development of secondary infection of scratches.

Cold Allergy Ointment is applied topically to exposed areas. It is best to do this before you go outside. A good solution would be to use a series of Morozko preparations. But tablets for allergies to cold should be taken only as directed by a doctor. Usually these are popular antihistamines that help get rid of the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Prophylaxis

Prevention is of great importance in the development of the disease. There are certain rules to follow here:0003

1. Before going outside in the cold season, open areas of the body should be lubricated with ointment or cream, and hygienic lipstick should be applied to the lips.
2. Cover open areas of the body as much as possible, using special hats, scarves, mittens and other items of clothing for this. In strong winds, be sure to wear a hood.
3. At home, you should massage your face and hands every day, which will help strengthen blood vessels and prevent the rapid onset of allergy symptoms outdoors in cold weather.
4. Both in winter and summer, it is recommended to stop drinking cold drinks, desserts and ice cream.
5. You need to eat right and include fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet. Twice a year, on the recommendation of a doctor, take a course using multivitamins.
6. Use cosmetics that are designed only for very sensitive skin.
7. In severe frost, it is better not to be outside at all and, if possible, stay in a warm room.

By adhering to the basic rules of nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can avoid the development of an attack of reaction to the cold. And with its development, you should immediately consult a doctor.

The author of the article:

Ovsyankina Olga Vladimirovna

allergist-immunologist

work experience 8 years

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