What are the common triggers of eye allergies. How can you identify the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. What are the most effective treatments for swollen, itchy eyes caused by allergies. How can you prevent eye allergy flare-ups at home and outdoors. When should you seek medical help for eye allergy symptoms.

Understanding Allergic Conjunctivitis: An Overview of Eye Allergies

Allergic conjunctivitis, commonly known as eye allergies, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes react to allergens in the environment, causing discomfort and irritation. While often overlooked in favor of nasal allergy symptoms, eye allergies can significantly impact quality of life and deserve proper attention and treatment.

Eye allergies pose little threat to long-term vision, but they can cause temporary blurriness and considerable discomfort. The good news is that many of the treatments and strategies used for nasal allergies are also effective for eye allergies.

Types of Eye Allergies

There are two primary types of eye allergies:

• Seasonal allergies: These occur at specific times of the year, typically in spring, summer, and early autumn.
• Perennial allergies: These persist year-round and are often caused by indoor allergens.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis

Identifying the symptoms of eye allergies is crucial for proper management and treatment. Common signs include:

• Red, irritated eyes
• Intense itching
• Excessive tearing or runny eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Soreness, burning, or pain
• Increased sensitivity to light

These symptoms may appear immediately upon contact with an allergen or develop over 2 to 4 days. Often, eye allergy symptoms are accompanied by other allergic reactions such as a stuffy or runny nose and sneezing.

How quickly do eye allergy symptoms develop?

Eye allergy symptoms can manifest in two ways:
1. Immediately upon contact with the allergen
2. Gradually over 2 to 4 days after exposure

Common Triggers of Eye Allergies

Understanding the triggers of eye allergies is essential for effective management and prevention. Common allergens include:

Seasonal Allergens

• Pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds
• Mold spores

Perennial Allergens

• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Feathers in bedding

Other Potential Triggers

• Perfumes and fragrances
• Smoke
• Chlorine
• Air pollution
• Cosmetics
• Certain medications

Identifying your specific triggers can be straightforward in some cases, such as when symptoms flare up on high-pollen days or after contact with a pet. However, if the cause is not apparent, an allergist can perform tests to pinpoint your allergens.

Effective Strategies for Managing Eye Allergies at Home

While medical treatments are available, there are numerous steps you can take at home to minimize eye allergy symptoms:

Outdoor Precautions

• Stay indoors when pollen counts are highest, typically in mid-morning and early evening
• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning
• Wear sunglasses or eyeglasses to block pollen
• Keep car windows closed and use the air conditioner while driving

Indoor Allergen Control

• Use allergen-proof pillow covers
• Wash bedding frequently in hot water
• Replace old mattresses
• Clean floors with a damp mop instead of sweeping
• Consider replacing carpets with hardwood or tile flooring
• Use blinds instead of curtains
• Maintain indoor humidity below 50% to prevent mold growth
• Keep pets out of the bedroom if they trigger allergies

Can changing your home environment significantly reduce eye allergy symptoms?

Yes, making changes to your home environment can substantially reduce eye allergy symptoms. By minimizing exposure to allergens through proper cleaning, using allergen-proof bedding, controlling humidity, and managing pet access, you can significantly decrease the frequency and severity of eye allergy flare-ups.

Medical Treatments for Allergic Conjunctivitis

When home remedies are insufficient, various medical treatments can provide relief from eye allergy symptoms:

Over-the-Counter Options

• Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops
• Decongestant eye drops (for short-term use)
• Oral antihistamines

Prescription Medications

• Antihistamine eye drops
• Mast cell stabilizer eye drops
• Combination antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer drops
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drops
• Steroid eye drops (for severe cases)

It’s important to note that some eye drops, particularly those containing antihistamines, work best when used before exposure to allergens. They may take longer to work than other types but often provide longer-lasting relief.

Which type of eye drops is most effective for severe eye allergies?

For severe eye allergies, a combination of antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer eye drops is often most effective. In particularly stubborn cases, short-term use of steroid eye drops under medical supervision may be necessary. However, due to potential side effects, steroid drops are typically reserved for severe, persistent symptoms that don’t respond to other treatments.

Advanced Treatment Options for Persistent Eye Allergies

For individuals with severe or persistent eye allergies that don’t respond well to standard treatments, more advanced options may be considered:

Immunotherapy

Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, can be an effective long-term solution for some people with eye allergies. This treatment involves exposing the body to gradually increasing amounts of an allergen over time, helping the immune system become less sensitive to it.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Similar to allergy shots, sublingual immunotherapy uses oral tablets or drops to desensitize the body to specific allergens. This can be a good alternative for those who prefer not to receive injections.

How long does it take for immunotherapy to show results in eye allergy treatment?

Immunotherapy for eye allergies typically takes several months to a year before significant improvement is noticed. However, the effects can be long-lasting, with many people experiencing relief for years after completing treatment. It’s important to note that immunotherapy requires commitment to a long-term treatment plan for optimal results.

When to Seek Professional Medical Help for Eye Allergies

While many cases of eye allergies can be managed at home or with over-the-counter treatments, there are situations where professional medical help is necessary:

• Symptoms persist despite trying home remedies and OTC treatments
• Eye allergies significantly impact daily life or vision
• You experience severe pain or discomfort
• There are signs of infection, such as discharge or fever
• You have a history of severe allergic reactions

An allergist or ophthalmologist can provide a thorough evaluation, identify specific allergens through testing, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What tests might an allergist perform to diagnose eye allergies?

An allergist may perform several tests to diagnose eye allergies:
1. Skin prick tests: Small amounts of potential allergens are placed on the skin to observe reactions.
2. Blood tests: These can measure levels of specific antibodies related to allergic reactions.
3. Conjunctival provocation test: A controlled amount of allergen is applied to the eye to observe the reaction.
These tests help identify specific triggers and guide treatment decisions.

Preventing Eye Allergy Flare-Ups: Long-Term Strategies

While treatment is essential for managing symptoms, prevention is key to long-term eye allergy control. Here are some strategies to minimize flare-ups:

1. Monitor pollen forecasts and plan outdoor activities accordingly
2. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home
3. Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors during high pollen seasons
4. Regularly clean or replace air filters in your home and car
5. Consider using a neti pot or saline nasal rinse to flush out allergens
6. Wear wraparound sunglasses when outdoors to protect eyes from allergens
7. Keep windows closed during high pollen count days

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of eye allergy symptoms.

How effective are air purifiers in reducing eye allergy symptoms?

Air purifiers, especially those with HEPA filters, can be highly effective in reducing eye allergy symptoms. They work by removing airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander from indoor air. Studies have shown that using air purifiers can lead to a significant reduction in allergy symptoms, including those affecting the eyes. For best results, use air purifiers in bedrooms and other areas where you spend the most time.

How to Get Relief From Eye Allergies

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Eye Allergy Symptoms
• Eye Allergy Causes
• Eye Allergy Types
• At-Home Eye Allergy Remedies
• Other Kinds of Eyedrops
• Allergy Medications for Eyes
• More

People who have allergies are often quick to seek help for symptoms such as sneezing, sniffling, and nasal congestion. But allergies can affect the eyes, too. They can make your eyes red and itchy, triggering burning. They might be watery and swollen, too. The good news is the same treatments and self-help strategies that ease nasal allergy symptoms work for eye allergies.

Also called ocular allergies or allergic conjunctivitis, they pose little threat to eyesight other than temporary blurriness. You may start to have symptoms as soon as the eyes come in contact with the allergen, or you may not have symptoms for 2 to 4 days.

Symptoms of eye allergies include:

• Red, irritated eyes
• Itchiness
• Tearing or runny eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Soreness, burning, or pain
• Sensitivity to light

Usually, you’ll also have other allergy symptoms, such as a stuffy, runny nose and sneezing.

Like all allergies, eye allergies happen when your body overreacts to something. The immune system makes antibodies that cause your eyes to release histamine and other substances. This causes itching and red, watery eyes. Some people also have nasal allergies.

There are two types of eye allergies: seasonal, which are more common, and perennial.

Seasonal allergies happen at certain times of the year – usually early spring through summer and into autumn. Triggers are allergens in the air, commonly pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds, as well as spores from molds.

Perennial allergies happen year-round. Major causes include dust mites, feathers (in bedding), and animal (pet) dander. Other substances, including perfumes, smoke, chlorine, air pollution, cosmetics, and certain medicines, can also play a role.

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell what causes an allergy. For example, if symptoms strike when you go outside on a windy, high-pollen-count day, or when a pet climbs onto your lap. If your trigger isn’t clear, a doctor can give you tests to find out.

The first thing to do is to avoid your triggers.

Stay indoors when pollen counts are highest, usually in mid-morning and early evening. Close the windows and run the air conditioner. (Window fans can draw in pollen and mold spores.)

When you go out, wear eyeglasses or big sunglasses to block pollen from your eyes. Driving? Keep the windows closed and run the air conditioner.

To limit your exposure to dust mites, use special pillow covers that keep allergens out. Wash bedding frequently in hot water. If your mattress is more than a few years old, consider getting a new one.

Clean floors with a damp mop. Sweeping tends to stir up rather than get rid of allergens. Especially if you have a pet, consider replacing rugs and carpets, which trap and hold allergens, with hardwood, tile, or other flooring materials that are easier to clean. Choose blinds instead of curtains.

To stop mold from growing inside your home, keep the humidity under 50%. You may need to use a dehumidifier, especially in a damp basement. Clean the dehumidifier regularly. And use a bleach solution when you tidy up your kitchen and bathrooms.

If your pet is a trigger, keep it out of your bedroom. Don’t rub your eyes. That’s likely to make symptoms worse. Use cool compresses instead.

Some eyedrops work only when you take them before your symptoms hit. They take more time to work than antihistamine eyedrops, but the effects last longer. Sometimes they are combined with antihistamines. These eyedrops need a prescription:

• Cromolyn (Crolom)
• Lodoxamide (Alomide)
• Nedocromil sodium (Alocril)
• Pemirolast potassium (Alamast)

Ketorolac (Acular or Acuvail) is another kind of eyedrop. It relieves itchy eyes, usually in about an hour. It can sting or burn at first.

Steroid eyedrops like loteprednol (Alrex, Lotemax) treat severe, long-lasting eye allergies. They are usually used only for a short time because they can cause serious side effects.

If you’re still having symptoms, your doctor may suggest allergy shots. With allergy shots, your body is exposed to increasing amounts of an allergen over time and gradually gets used to it. Depending on the cause of your allergies, oral tablets or drops that work much like allergy shots could be used instead.

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can give short-term relief of some eye allergy symptoms. Prescription treatments can provide both short- and long-term help.

Sterile saline rinses and eye lubricants can soothe irritated eyes and help flush out allergens.

Decongestant eyedrops can curb eye redness by constricting blood vessels in the eyes. These drops tend to sting a bit, and they don’t relieve all symptoms. What’s more, their effect tends to be short-lived. If you use them for more than a few days, it can cause “rebound” eye redness. Eyedrops containing ketotifen can ease allergy symptoms for up to 12 hours. They won’t cause rebound redness even with long-term use. Refrigerating your eyedrops may bring more relief.

In addition to red, itchy eyes from allergies, many people also have other symptoms, like a stuffy, runny nose. If you do, nasal steroid sprays can help your eyes and nose. Over-the-counter options include Flonase, Rhinocort, and Nasacort. Several others are also available with a doctor’s prescription.

Oral antihistamines can also help. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) tend to be less sedating than some older drugs, and they provide longer-lasting relief. Keep in mind, though, that oral antihistamines do dry the eyes and can make a dry eye condition worse. 

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Eye Allergies: Symptoms, Triggers, Treatments

Medically Reviewed by Whitney Seltman, OD on November 02, 2021

Have allergies turned your eyes red and puffy? You’re not alone — millions of Americans deal with the condition, also called allergic conjunctivitis. A cold compress can give you a quick fix before heading out in public. But for long-term relief, you need to know your triggers and treat the symptoms.

They include redness in the white of your eye or inner eyelid. Other warning signs: itching, tearing, blurred vision, a burning sensation, swollen eyelids, and sensitivity to light. Eye allergies can happen alone or with nasal allergies and an allergic skin condition called eczema. The only way to know for sure if it’s an allergy is to see your doctor.

Because they’re exposed to an allergen, like pet dander or pollen. Cells in your eyes called mast cells release histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation. The result: itching, redness, and watering.

It’s hard not to touch them, but it’ll only make things worse. Rubbing causes mast cells to release more of those itch-causing chemicals. These things can help: If you wear contact lenses, take them out. Skip the eye makeup, and apply cool compresses to your eyes. Use preservative free artificial tear drops to wash allergens out of your eyes. Wash your hands often.

Apply a hypoallergenic concealer to help hide dark circles. Don’t try to cover up with heavy makeup — it’ll only call attention to your red, watery eyes. Instead, emphasize another feature. Wear a killer shade of lipstick, for example.

If your eyes well up when you go outside during spring or summer, you may have seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Grass, tree, and weed pollens are the worst offenders. When pollen counts are high, stay indoors, keep your windows closed, and run the air conditioner. Wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.

Pet dander, dust mites, and molds top the list. They can cause symptoms all year long. If you have a pet, keep them out of your bedroom. Can’t resist playing with Fluffy or Fido at a friend’s house? Wash your hands ASAP when you’re done. Change clothes as soon as you go home. Make sure to also use preservative-free artificial tears to wash out any allergens that may be getting into your eyes.

If dust mites set off your symptoms, invest in bedding and pillowcases that keep them out. Wash sheets in hot water, and try to keep the humidity levels in your home between 30% and 50%. Clean floors with a damp mop. Don’t sweep — it stirs up allergens.

Clean bathrooms, kitchens, and basements where mold lurks. Get a dehumidifier to help remove moisture from the air. Change the water often. Get a HEPA filter for your air conditioner, too. It can trap mold spores before they attack your eyes.

Most over-the-counter drops for eye allergies have the same medications used to treat nasal allergies: 

• Antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers block the release of itch-causing chemicals your body makes.
• Decongestant drops shrink blood vessels in your eyes, which eases redness.
• Tear substitutes rinse away allergens and keep eyes moist.

People with certain conditions should not use some types of eye drops, so ask your doctor. Prescription options may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids.

Antihistamines and decongestants that you take as pills, capsules, or liquids can help control your symptoms. But they can dry out your eyes and might make you sleepy. Some OTC decongestants make you dizzy or wired. If you have high blood pressure, ask your doctor what to take.

They work well for eye allergies. The shots, which your doctor might call immunotherapy, help your immune system get used to the things that trigger your symptoms. They’re usually an option for people with severe allergies. Treatment can take months, and you may still need to use medicine. Ask your doctor if they’ll work for you.

There’s a lot you can do to take the sting out of your eye allergies. Work with your doctor to set a plan in place to stop future attacks.

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REFERENCES:
 

American Academy of Family Physicians.

American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

American Family Physician.

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

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Why eyes itch and what to do about it

Likbez

Health

July 28, 2019

In most cases, itching goes away on its own, but it is better to visit an ophthalmologist right away.

When to see a doctor

Ophthalmic surgeon Alexander Kulik advises calling an ambulance or going to an ophthalmologist as soon as possible if itching in the eyes is accompanied by one of these signs:

• sudden loss of vision or its sharp deterioration during the day;
• Loss of half of the visual field or appearance of a dark spot in front of one or both eyes at once.

Alexander Kulik

ophthalmologist-surgeon, candidate of medical sciences, highly qualified doctor, consultant of the Teledoctor-24 service

These symptoms can indicate not only dangerous eye diseases, but also diseases of the brain and nervous system.

Also see a doctor immediately if you have injured your eye.

Why do eyes itch

Here are the main eight reasons.

1. Allergy

Occurs as a response of the immune system to foreign substances. Most often, the eyes itch with seasonal allergies, which are caused by plant pollen. There are other reasons: dust, pets, insects, food, drugs and other chemicals.

As a result, the eyelids and conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eyelids and part of the eyeball) swell, redden and itch. Your eyes water and you feel a burning sensation. There is also sneezing and runny nose.

What to do

See an ophthalmologist or an allergist for an allergy medication. To avoid unpleasant symptoms, try not to come into contact with the irritant:

• Keep windows closed during flowering and avoid going outside.
• Do not eat foods that cause allergies.
• Moisten as often as possible.
• If pets are causing allergies, walk them several times a day. Avoid touching them and wash your hands after each contact.

2. Air pollutants

Some people are sensitive to smoke, exhaust fumes, dust or even certain perfumes. Pollutants cause irritation upon contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, which causes the latter to water, itch and burn.

What to do

Alexander Kulik recommends rinsing eyes with Miramistin antiseptic and consulting an ophthalmologist. Avoid contact with irritants whenever possible.

3. Conjunctivitis

This inflammation of the conjunctiva is caused by viral or bacterial infections, chemicals or foreign objects. The eyes with conjunctivitis are red, itchy and watery, it seems to a person that sand has got under the eyelids. In the morning it is difficult to open them because of the sticky crusts.

Red eyes with conjunctivitis / health.com

What to do

Instill miramistin and see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. Only a doctor will determine the cause of conjunctivitis and prescribe the correct treatment.

4. Dry eye syndrome

The disease occurs due to a lack of tears that moisturize and nourish the cornea, so the eyes become red, itchy and you feel a burning sensation. Viscous mucus accumulates under the eyelids, it seems that a mote has fallen under them, it is unpleasant for a person to look at the light. Often vision deteriorates.

Dry eye syndrome appears if:

• few tears are produced, for example, after laser surgery or taking hormonal drugs, as well as in diabetes and other diseases;
• tears evaporate too quickly: when working at a computer, when turning or turning the eyelids;
• there are factors such as wind, smoke, dry air.

What to do

See an ophthalmologist if you notice these symptoms. He will determine the specific cause of the syndrome and prescribe treatment. To relieve symptoms, wash your eyes with warm water and soap two to three times a day and instill Miramistin.

5. Visual fatigue syndrome

The organs of vision get tired due to prolonged and intense strain – when reading or working at a computer. In addition to itching, pain and burning in the eyes, a person complains of double objects, fear of light, pain in the head, neck or shoulders.

What to do

As a rule, this condition disappears immediately after rest and does not require additional treatment. These tips will help you avoid eye fatigue:

• Use the screen or print media in good light.
• Take breaks as often as possible. Take a few seconds off, blink and look into the distance.
• If possible, limit the amount of time you use the monitor.
• Use eye drops with artificial tears.
• Use special computer glasses.

If these recommendations do not help, see an ophthalmologist.

6. Contact lenses

If you wear them continuously or care for them incorrectly, it can lead to papillary conjunctivitis. At the same time, the eyes turn red, watery and itchy.

What to do

See an ophthalmologist as soon as possible, because in some cases you will need to change your contact lenses. Stop wearing them until the symptoms go away. To avoid this situation in the future, carefully follow the hygiene recommendations:

• wash your hands with soap and water before handling lenses;
• minimize lens contact with water and saliva;
• limit the amount of time you wear lenses, be sure to remove them at night;
• Treat lenses with lens solution before and after use.

7. Blepharitis

This is inflammation of the eyelids, which usually appears at the edge of the eyelids, where the eyelashes and sebaceous glands are located. The causes of the disease are many: blockage of the sebaceous glands, allergies, bacterial infection, eyelash mites and even dandruff. The eyes with blepharitis are reddened and swollen, they itch, watery, and there is a burning sensation. A person is afraid of bright light, it seems that sand has got under the eyelids. Eyelashes stick together in the morning and fall out easily.

Blepharitis does not impair vision, but is difficult to treat and often becomes chronic and causes complications such as conjunctivitis, styes, corneal ulcers or scarring of the eyelids.

Blepharitis eye / betanclinics.nl

What to do

Wash the affected eyelid with soap and water two to four times a day and put Miramistin in the eye. Avoid wearing make-up and contact lenses until the blepharitis is gone.

To reduce inflammation, soak a washcloth in warm water and apply to the eyelid for five minutes. Do this two to three times a day.

Alexander Kulik

See an ophthalmologist if you haven’t noticed any improvement after two days.

8. Barley

This is an inflammation of the sebaceous gland at the edge of the eyelid, similar to a boil or pimple with a white dot of pus in the center. The disease is caused by bacteria that enter the eye with unwashed hands or contact lenses. In addition to itching, a person complains of soreness and swelling of the eyelid, watery eyes. Styes do not impair vision and usually go away on their own.

Stye Eye / babycenter.com/

What to do

Keeping the eye clean is enough to keep the infection from spreading. To do this, wash the eyelid with warm water and soap two or three times a day and instill Miramistin. Do not wear contact lenses and go without makeup until the stye is gone. To relieve pain, two to three times a day, apply a washcloth soaked in warm water to the eyelid for five minutes.

Visit an ophthalmologist if the condition does not improve after two days or if the redness and swelling go beyond the eyelid.

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Treatment of itchy eyes

Table of contents

Associated symptoms

Localization of itching

Pathogenic causes

Non-pathogenic causes

Diagnostics

Treatment for itchy eyes

Prevention

Itching during pregnancy

Itching in the eyes of a child

Itching of the eyes occurs in almost all pathologies affecting the organs of vision. It can be a symptom of a serious ophthalmic disease, a manifestation of an allergy, a reaction to a mote that has fallen on the mucous membrane, a consequence of a long stay in front of a monitor screen.

If the eyes are constantly itchy and itchy, the patient needs to consult an ophthalmologist with an examination.

Associated symptoms

Itching can manifest itself in different forms. In some patients, the eyes itch a little, in others there is a strong burning sensation, which is accompanied by pain, discomfort and other characteristic signs.

Itching with redness

In almost all cases, itching in the eyes is accompanied by reddening of the surface of the proteins or eyelids. The appearance of redness can inform the doctor about the presence of an allergic reaction, the development of an ophthalmic disease.

When itching with reddening of the cornea, the patient is usually diagnosed with conjunctivitis. The disease is accompanied by increased susceptibility to light, blurred vision, a feeling of sand in the eyes. The skin around the eyes begins to redden. On the eyelids, mucous secretions appear, which dry out and remain in the form of crusts.

With allergic conjunctivitis, the mucous membrane turns red, a runny nose may develop. Symptoms occur when allergens enter the body.

Itching with swelling

Swelling around the eyes is a typical symptom of an allergic reaction. For example, if itching and swelling occur frequently and are caused by certain foods, the patient needs to completely reconsider the diet.

Itching with scaling

Skin scaling may inform the physician that a patient has demodicosis. This is a disease in which the sebaceous glands are affected by a tick.

Redness of the skin around the eyes, around the lips, on the chin. Symptoms become more pronounced when working at a computer.

Itching in the eyes and ears

If the eyes are itchy, there is discomfort in the ears, the patient should be checked for the presence of microscopic mites.

About 80% of people face them. Most of the time, ticks spend in a passive mode and do not bother a person. Their activity begins with a weakening of the immune system, the appearance of other diseases.

Itching with dryness

Drying of the mucous membrane may indicate dry eye syndrome. Usually it is accompanied by itching, burning, fear of light and rapid fatigue of the patient. Sometimes there are crusts in the corner, slight redness of the conjunctiva. The eye starts to hurt.

The feeling of dryness is worse in sunny or windy weather, less in moist and warm air.

Itching with runny nose

With a runny nose, redness of the mucous membrane is common. Sometimes there is discharge from the eyes: at first transparent, gradually pus is mixed with them. Swelling of the nasal mucosa with dark circles around the eyes indicates the presence of an infection.

Itching in the ears, eyes, throat and palate is a symptom of mucosal inflammation or allergic rhinitis.

Severe itching

Very severe itching in the eyes is caused by various ophthalmic diseases, such as keratoconjunctivitis. It affects the conjunctiva of the eyelid and the eyeball. It is accompanied by hard and dense growths on the eyelids, most often on the upper ones. In addition, there may be photophobia, lacrimation, viscous discharge.

In the pathology of the conjunctiva, the cornea becomes gray and hypertrophied, there is pain caused by damage to the epithelium.

Localization of itching

Symptoms and causes can be divided according to their location.

In the area of ​​the eyelids

The main reason is hyperemia caused by eye irritation upon contact with household chemicals, dust, pet hair. Itching on the eyelids can appear after eating certain foods, such as chocolate. In this case, the doctor may refer the patient for an allergen test.

Women may experience itching due to poor-quality cosmetics that contain prohibited ingredients. Getting on the skin of the eyelids, eyelashes or mucous membranes, they cause irritation and itching.

In the corner of the eyelids

Occurs due to the activity of bacteria or viruses. Redness of the eyes appears, increased lacrimation begins, burning in the corner of the eyelid. Main causes:

• barley;
• allergy;
• microtrauma or foreign body penetration;
• exposure to chemicals;
• too long use of contact lenses.

In rare cases, only the skin in the corner of the eye itchs and hurts. This may indicate the development of conjunctivitis. However, most often with this disease, discomfort affects the entire mucous membrane and eyelids at once.

Under the eyes

Demodicosis and blepharitis cause itching in this area. Demodicosis causes a tick that lives in the eyebrows and eyelashes. Blepharitis is a bacterial lesion affecting the edges of the eyelids that requires long-term painstaking treatment. Severe discomfort occurs with a cyst of the sebaceous gland.

Edema may appear under the eyes. In this case, the cause of the itching is an allergic reaction.

Around the eyes

Causes are often caused by external factors. Due to the activity of snow or wind, the skin dries up, cracks appear on it.

Itching around the eyes causes allergic dermatitis, which occurs when using low-quality cosmetics or inappropriate medicines. Other causes include blepharitis, herpes, or an insect bite.

Pathogenic causes

This group includes pathologies caused by weak immunity, allergies, bacterial or viral infections, parasites.

Allergic reaction

The reaction of the body to allergens that irritate the mucous membrane. Most often occurs in the spring, when plants begin to bloom, and a huge amount of allergens enters the air. Because of them, the eyes begin to dry and itch from the inside. Certain foods can cause a reaction: milk, eggs, chocolate, citrus fruits, pomegranates, or strawberries.

Some medications can also cause allergy symptoms. These include antibiotics, vitamin complexes and preparations containing iodine. In women, allergies can be caused by improperly selected cosmetics.

Allergies are diagnosed with a series of laboratory tests that can pinpoint the cause of the discomfort. After that, the doctor selects antihistamines.

To prevent itching, you can wash your eyes several times a day with special drops. This reduces the contact of the mucosa with allergens.

Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the mucous membrane, which is based on an allergy or infection. The infectious form is usually caused by viruses or bacteria, very rarely a fungus. The disease can be transmitted from person to person by contact.

With conjunctivitis, itching is the first sign in which you need to see a doctor for treatment. During therapy, local antiviral or antibacterial drugs are used in the form of eye drops or ointments.

Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelids caused by anemia, diseases of the digestive system, diabetes, infection and other pathologies. As blepharitis develops, the refractive function of the eyes deteriorates, which causes comorbidities, such as farsightedness, to appear. The patient has a desire to scratch the eyelids, swelling is formed.

The disease is accompanied by the formation of small scales or ulcers at the edges of the eyelids. The treatment of blepharitis takes a long time and, in addition to getting rid of the symptoms, includes the elimination of the causes of its development.

Demodicosis

Infection of the skin with the demodex parasitic mite. The activity of the parasite leads to the fact that itching appears from the inside, the eyes hurt and itch. The main method of treatment involves the use of gels or ointments that reduce the activity of the parasite.

DES – dry eye syndrome

Causes dryness and swelling of the mucous membrane, itching sensation. It seems to the patient that sand has got under the eyelids, because of which he often begins to rub his eyes, exacerbating the condition. The syndrome is caused by a lack of tear fluid production.

Dry eye syndrome is commonly experienced by older people and is 65-70% more common than younger patients. Recently, the problem has been encountered by office workers who spend a lot of time in front of the monitor screen in an office with dry air. The syndrome is also caused by chemical or thermal burns, adenoviruses.

Barley

Purulent inflammation of the sebaceous gland of the eyelid or eyelash follicle. It develops against the background of reduced immunity, with severe hypothermia, frequent stress.

The infection penetrates the gland or hair follicle, after which the formation of pus and inflammation begins. First, a small itchy dot appears on the edge of the eyelid, painful when touched. Gradually, the tissues around it swell, redness appears, and the head of the abscess forms. After opening it, pus and dead tissue are released.

To treat barley and reduce itching, the doctor selects antibacterial ointments and drops, prescribes therapy to strengthen the immune system.

Non-pathogenic causes

These are causes that are caused by external factors, such as environmental conditions or incorrect actions of the patient.

Swimming in water

This is a common cause of infection by viruses, bacteria and mites. Their activity causes itching in the corners of the eyes, under the eyelids or on them. Most often, diseases develop in the summer months, when microscopic algae begin to actively multiply in the water. When in contact with the eyes, they cause a number of unpleasant symptoms.

Swimming in a pool can also cause a reaction. Chlorinated water negatively affects the condition of the mucous membrane, causing itching.

UV burns

Strong ultraviolet radiation can cause pain and itching. It can be encountered when visiting a solarium without protective glasses, when observing the sun. A retinal burn can be caused by an electric welding process that uses a powerful light flux.

Blockage of the tear duct

Burning and itching in the eyes often appear when the tear ducts are blocked by burning particles or fine dust.

There is an easy way to deal with blockage: it is enough to hold the points at the inner corners of the eyes for a few seconds. Usually, after this, tears begin to flow, clearing the tear ducts. If this does not happen, you should consult a doctor.

Which doctor treats itching?

Pathology is within the competence of an ophthalmologist (oculist). He conducts an initial examination and makes a preliminary diagnosis. The patient may need the help of doctors of other specialties, such as an allergist, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, and others. In this case, treatment will be prescribed not only to get rid of the symptoms, but also to eliminate the underlying disease.

Diagnostics

At the consultation, the doctor examines the patient’s complaints and collects his medical history, conducts a physical examination. He selects diagnostic methods to determine what causes the eyelids and the area around the eyes to itch. They include:

• CBC
• Allergy test
• Microscopic analysis of eyelashes
• Bacteriological analysis of eyelid scrapings

If the itching is caused by a systemic disease, the doctor may prescribe additional diagnostic procedures. They will help to find out why the eyes itch, how to eliminate the risk of recurrence of symptoms.

Treatment of itchy eyes

If itching occurs, cold or warm compresses can be applied. They soften hard crusts on the eyelids, reduce the appearance of edema. You can only touch your eyes with previously washed hands!

The doctor selects special drops and ointments to relieve itching and other symptoms. They moisturize the mucous membrane, reduce its irritation and inflammation. Ointments may contain a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective in fighting infection. It relieves inflammation and irritation. Eye drops work well, such as Gilan.

If the discomfort is caused by a systemic disease, the doctor determines how to get rid of itchy eyes with drug therapy, prescribes medication to relieve symptoms.

Eye drops

A good choice are eye drops that are aimed at getting rid of the main signs of ophthalmic diseases.

Drops are suitable for the treatment of acute and chronic inflammation, prevention of eye diseases. They relieve irritation, eliminate itching and redness. May have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects. They are often used to improve the condition of the eyes after injuries, surgery, and infectious pathology.

Pay attention to Gilan drops. They contain hyaluronic acid, which has a long-term pronounced moisturizing effect. It facilitates the patient’s condition with frequent stay at the monitor screen, while driving. The drug can be used by children and pregnant women.

The use of antibiotics is allowed only after a doctor’s prescription! Prolonged uncontrolled use of the formulations can lead to clouding of the lens, glaucoma or dry eye syndrome. Before starting treatment, it is necessary to find out why the eye itches.

How to eliminate itching yourself?

First of all, you should determine why the skin around the eyes and eyelids constantly itches. If the cause is not associated with serious diseases, you can use home treatment methods.

What is recommended for severe itching in the eyes?

First let your eyes rest. To do this, remove lenses or glasses, wash off makeup, turn off the computer and TV. You can cover your eyelids with your palms for a few minutes, look at a far point.

If the eyes itch a lot, it is advisable to wash them with boiled water or saline solution, strong tea or herbal decoction. It is better to keep on hand drops to moisturize the mucosa, which can be bought at any pharmacy.

If itching is caused by allergies, antihistamines can help relieve the condition. To speed up the process, you can use eye drops that moisturize the mucous membrane and relieve irritation.

A few simple exercises

1. When tired, close your eyes tightly for 3 seconds.
2. Blink frequently for 30 seconds.
3. Roll your eyes in a circle for 20 seconds.
4. Close your eyes, cover them tightly with your palms for 5 seconds.

Prevention

• Regular hand washing. Many people have a habit of rubbing their eyes, so it’s best to rule out the risk of infection on the surface of the cornea beforehand.
• Wearing sunglasses in sunny weather. They protect the mucous membrane from exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
• Use of computer glasses. They relieve eye strain when working at a computer.
• Regular warm-up. Improves the well-being of the eyes, helps them relax.
• Minimal contact with allergens.

Itching during pregnancy

Discomfort can be caused by standard causes or hormonal imbalance. It is necessary to consult a doctor so that he determines the exact cause and selects the right drugs.