What to put on itchy eyes. Effective Remedies for Itchy Eyes: Expert Insights and Solutions
What causes itchy eyes. How can you alleviate eye itching at home. When should you consult a doctor for itchy eyes. What are the best treatments for eye allergies. How do contact lenses affect eye itchiness. What are the long-term solutions for chronic eye itching.
Understanding the Causes of Itchy Eyes
Itchy eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition that affects many people, especially during certain seasons. While often associated with allergies, various factors can contribute to this irritating sensation. Dr. Irene Kuo, an ophthalmologist at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine, sheds light on the causes and potential remedies for itchy eyes.
Eye allergies, both seasonal and perennial, are common culprits behind itchy eyes. These allergies can be triggered by environmental factors such as:
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Dust
- Smoke
Additionally, certain products may cause similar symptoms, including:
- Lotions
- Makeup
- Contact lens solutions
To pinpoint the specific allergens causing discomfort, an allergist can perform an allergy test. This information is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.
The Importance of Avoiding Eye Rubbing
When experiencing itchy eyes, the natural instinct is often to rub them for relief. However, this action can exacerbate the problem. Rubbing your eyes can introduce more allergens, such as pollen and pet dander, intensifying the irritation. Moreover, persistent rubbing may lead to more serious complications.
Can rubbing your eyes cause damage? Yes, constant rubbing can potentially break the top layer of the cornea (epithelium), resulting in pain and increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, it’s crucial to resist the urge to rub your eyes, no matter how tempting it may be.
Home Remedies for Itchy Eye Relief
For those seeking immediate relief from mild allergy-related eye itching, several home remedies can provide temporary comfort:
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold cloth or compress over the eyes can help alleviate discomfort.
- Artificial Tears: Frequent use of chilled, over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can soothe irritated eyes.
- Avoidance and Removal Strategies: Implementing protective measures during high-pollen seasons can significantly reduce eye irritation.
What are some effective avoidance strategies for reducing eye irritation?
- Close windows in your car and home to minimize pollen exposure.
- Wear wrap-around sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from airborne allergens.
- Use a dehumidifier to control potential mold growth in your home.
- Shower nightly to remove accumulated pollens from your skin, eyelids, hair, and face.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after petting animals.
- Change bedding more frequently to reduce allergen buildup.
Medical Treatments for Itchy Eyes
When home remedies prove insufficient, various medical treatments can provide relief from itchy eyes:
Over-the-Counter Solutions
Anti-allergy eye drops and oral medications containing antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers can effectively ease symptoms for many individuals. These products are readily available without a prescription.
Prescription Treatments
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications to manage eye allergies and itching. These could include more potent antihistamine eye drops or oral medications.
Allergy Immunotherapy
For long-term relief, sublingual immunotherapy is an option. This treatment involves daily administration of allergy drops at home, gradually increasing your tolerance to specific allergens over time.
How does sublingual immunotherapy work? The treatment exposes you to small amounts of the allergens you’re sensitized to, allowing your immune system to build tolerance. Over time, this can lead to reduced allergic reactions and symptoms.
Contact Lens Considerations for Itchy Eyes
Contact lens wearers may experience additional challenges when dealing with itchy eyes. Proper lens hygiene is crucial for minimizing irritation and maintaining eye health.
What are the best practices for contact lens care to reduce eye irritation?
- Change contact lenses as often as prescribed to prevent allergen and bacterial buildup.
- Keep eyes well-lubricated with artificial tears.
- Thoroughly clean contact lenses every night, including rubbing them during the cleaning process.
- Wash the lens case and replace the solution daily. Never “top off” old solution.
- Consider switching to daily disposable contact lenses for improved hygiene and comfort.
If eye irritation persists despite following these guidelines, consult your eye doctor about adjusting your lens replacement schedule or exploring alternative options.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many cases of itchy eyes can be managed with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments, certain situations warrant professional medical attention.
When should you consult an eye doctor for itchy eyes?
- If symptoms persist or worsen despite trying home remedies and OTC treatments
- If you experience severe pain, redness, or vision changes
- If you suspect an eye infection
- If you have a history of eye problems or chronic conditions affecting the eyes
An eye doctor can conduct a thorough examination to determine if underlying conditions such as blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) or dry eye syndrome are contributing to your symptoms. These conditions may require specific treatment plans beyond typical allergy management.
Long-Term Management of Chronic Eye Itching
For individuals who experience recurring or chronic eye itching, developing a comprehensive long-term management plan is essential. This approach may involve a combination of strategies:
- Identifying and avoiding triggers through allergy testing and environmental modifications
- Implementing a consistent eye care routine, including regular use of artificial tears and proper eyelid hygiene
- Working with an allergist or immunologist to explore immunotherapy options
- Regular follow-ups with an eye care professional to monitor eye health and adjust treatments as needed
- Considering lifestyle changes that may reduce overall allergic responses, such as dietary modifications or stress management techniques
How can lifestyle changes impact chronic eye itching? While not a cure-all, certain lifestyle modifications may help reduce the frequency and severity of eye itching episodes. These can include:
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods
- Staying well-hydrated to support overall eye health
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques, as stress can exacerbate allergic responses
- Ensuring adequate sleep, which supports immune system function
- Limiting screen time and taking regular breaks to reduce eye strain
Emerging Treatments and Research in Eye Allergy Management
The field of eye allergy treatment is continuously evolving, with researchers exploring new approaches to provide more effective and long-lasting relief for those suffering from chronic eye itching and allergies.
What are some promising developments in eye allergy treatment?
- Novel antihistamine formulations with extended-release properties for prolonged symptom relief
- Targeted immunotherapies that may offer more personalized treatment options
- Exploration of the role of the microbiome in eye allergies and potential probiotic interventions
- Development of advanced drug delivery systems for more efficient topical treatments
- Investigation into the use of biologics for severe, treatment-resistant eye allergies
While these treatments are still in various stages of research and development, they offer hope for improved management of eye allergies and itching in the future. Staying informed about these advancements and discussing them with your eye care professional can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options as they become available.
The Impact of Environmental Factors on Eye Health
Understanding the relationship between environmental factors and eye health is crucial for managing and preventing itchy eyes. Various elements in our surroundings can significantly influence eye comfort and overall ocular well-being.
How do different environmental factors affect eye health?
- Air Quality: Poor air quality, including high levels of pollutants and particulate matter, can irritate the eyes and exacerbate allergy symptoms.
- Humidity Levels: Both excessively dry and humid environments can impact eye comfort. Low humidity can lead to dry eyes, while high humidity may promote mold growth, a common allergen.
- UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the eyes and potentially worsen allergy symptoms.
- Indoor Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores in indoor environments can trigger eye allergies.
- Seasonal Changes: Pollen levels fluctuate with the seasons, affecting those with seasonal allergies.
To mitigate these environmental impacts, consider the following strategies:
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor allergens and pollutants.
- Monitor and maintain optimal indoor humidity levels (between 30-50%).
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors, even on cloudy days.
- Regularly clean and vacuum your living space to reduce dust and allergen buildup.
- Stay informed about local pollen counts and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
By taking proactive steps to manage your environment, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing itchy eyes and other allergy-related eye symptoms.
The Role of Nutrition in Eye Health and Allergy Management
While often overlooked, nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining eye health and potentially mitigating allergy symptoms, including itchy eyes. A well-balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can support overall ocular function and boost the immune system’s ability to handle allergens.
Which nutrients are particularly beneficial for eye health and allergy management?
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these can help reduce inflammation and dry eye symptoms.
- Vitamin C: This antioxidant, abundant in citrus fruits and berries, supports the immune system and may help reduce allergy symptoms.
- Vitamin E: Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils, it protects eye cells from damage.
- Zinc: Present in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds, zinc supports overall eye health and immune function.
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These carotenoids, found in leafy greens and colorful vegetables, support retinal health.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid, present in onions, apples, and berries, has natural antihistamine properties.
Incorporating these nutrients into your diet may help alleviate eye irritation and support overall eye health. However, it’s important to note that while nutrition can play a supportive role, it should not replace medical treatments for eye allergies or other eye conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or supplement regimen.
In addition to a balanced diet, staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining eye health. Proper hydration helps ensure adequate tear production, which is essential for keeping the eyes lubricated and comfortable. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you spend time in air-conditioned or heated environments that can contribute to eye dryness.
The Psychological Impact of Chronic Eye Itching
Chronic eye itching and allergies can have a significant psychological impact on individuals, affecting their quality of life, social interactions, and overall well-being. Understanding and addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive eye care.
How can chronic eye itching affect mental health and daily life?
- Stress and Anxiety: Constant discomfort can lead to increased stress levels and anxiety about potential flare-ups.
- Sleep Disturbances: Itchy eyes may interfere with sleep quality, leading to fatigue and mood changes.
- Social Withdrawal: Visible symptoms like redness or frequent eye rubbing may cause self-consciousness in social situations.
- Reduced Productivity: Discomfort and distraction from eye symptoms can impact work or academic performance.
- Frustration and Helplessness: Persistent symptoms despite treatment can lead to feelings of frustration or helplessness.
Addressing the psychological impact of chronic eye itching is crucial for overall well-being. Consider the following strategies:
- Seek support from friends, family, or support groups who understand your condition.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
- Engage in activities that bring joy and distraction from eye discomfort.
- Consider speaking with a mental health professional if eye symptoms significantly impact your quality of life.
- Educate those around you about your condition to foster understanding and support.
Remember that managing the psychological aspects of chronic eye itching is just as important as treating the physical symptoms. A holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental well-being can lead to improved overall quality of life for those dealing with persistent eye allergies and irritation.
By understanding the multifaceted nature of eye health, from environmental factors and nutrition to psychological impacts, individuals can take a more comprehensive approach to managing itchy eyes and related conditions. This holistic perspective, combined with appropriate medical treatments and lifestyle modifications, can lead to significant improvements in eye comfort and overall well-being.
Why Are My Eyes Itchy? Answers From an Expert
Why Are My Eyes Itchy? Answers From an Expert | Johns Hopkins Medicine
Reviewed By:
For many people, the warmth and beauty of spring are accompanied by irritated, burning and, sometimes, swollen eyes and eyelids. These symptoms, often attributed to allergy season, can be caused by other factors in the environment.
If you are one of the many who suffer from itchy eyes, understanding the cause is the key to treatment and relief.
Ophthalmologist Irene Kuo, M.D., of the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine, explains the cause and the methods to keep in mind to help relieve your itchy eyes.
Eye allergies, whether seasonal or year-round, are often the cause of itchy eyes. These allergies can be triggered by pollen or pet dander. Irritants like dust and smoke, or products such as lotions, makeup or contact lens solutions can also cause symptoms similar to those of eye allergies. An allergist can conduct an allergy test to determine the specific allergens that are causing you discomfort.
Learn about treatment for seasonal allergies.
Don’t Rub Your Eyes!
The most obvious measure to take may be the most difficult: Avoid rubbing your eyes. If you rub your already-irritated eyes, you can add more allergens such as pollens and pet dander. Constant rubbing of the eyes can even cause a break in the top corneal layer (epithelium), causing pain and potentially leading to infection.
Itchy-Eye Relief
Once allergies are determined to be the cause of your itchy eyes, you and your doctor will work together to find a treatment plan that works best for you. The plan may include:
- Avoidance and Removal. Protective measures during high-pollen season could go a long way to providing relief from itchy eyes.
- Close windows in your car or at home, and wear wrap-around sunglasses outdoors to avoid contact with pollen.
- Use a dehumidifier to control potential mold in your home.
- Shower each night to remove accumulated pollens on skin, eyelids, hair and your face. Be sure to wash your hands after petting animals.
- Change bedding more frequently.
- Cold Compress. If you are dealing with a mild case of allergy-related itching, a cold cloth or compress over the eyes can help temporarily ease the discomfort.
- Artificial Tears. Frequent use of chilled over-the-counter, lubricating eye drops can relieve symptoms.
- Anti-allergy Eyedrops or Oral Medications. For many people, allergy relief eyedrops, or oral medications that contain antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers, can ease symptoms. These can be obtained over-the-counter or your doctor can prescribe them.
- Allergy Immunotherapy. A treatment called sublingual immunotherapy involves daily administration of allergy drops at home. You are treated with the allergens you are sensitized to, and over time, become more tolerant of those allergens.
- Keep your eyes lubricated often with artificial tears.
- Make sure to rub your contact lenses during cleaning every night. Wash the case and change the solution inside every day. Do not “top off” with solution. Start with a clean case and clean solution every time you remove your contact lenses.
- Consult with your eye doctor to consider a new replacement schedule for your contact lenses if the irritation does not lessen. Daily disposable contact lenses may also be an option.
If these treatments do not help, a visit to your eye doctor can help determine if something else is the cause of your allergies. Conditions such as blepharitis — an inflammation of the eyelid — or dry eye syndrome can also cause eye irritation. They require a treatment plan specific to those conditions.
Contact Lens Hygiene
If you wear contact lenses, it’s important to change them as often as prescribed. Allergens as well as bacterial products can stick to soft contact lenses.
Remember that in addition to any treatment you receive, the best way you can help prevent worsening a case of itchy eyes is to avoid touching or rubbing them.
Treatment
Wilmer Eye Institute Cornea Division
Johns Hopkins experts in cornea and external eye disease can help diagnose and treat conditions including blepharitis, dry eye syndrome and more.
Learn more about Wilmer’s cornea services
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Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O. D. — By Adrian White — Updated on July 3, 2019
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Are there home remedies for itchy eyes?
Having itchy eyes can be uncomfortable. Luckily, getting itchy eyes is rarely ever a serious health concern.
The most likely things to cause it are:
- dry eyes
- allergic rhinitis (such as seasonal allergies or hay fever)
- eye infection (such as various types of conjunctivitis)
- improper contact lens fit or material
- getting something stuck in your eye
- atopic dermatitis or eczema
In these cases, itchy eyes are fairly safe and easy to treat at home.
Here are two reliable home remedies that you can use to treat itchy eyes.
Always make sure to see a doctor if symptoms become severe enough to affect your day-to-day life.
Eye drops
Over-the-counter eye drops for itch relief are always helpful.
Some are designed for allergies and redness, while others work like artificial tears for dryness. The best types are preservative free. Some help all these conditions in addition to itching.
Buy eye drops now.
Cold compress
You can also try a cold compress.
A cold-water compress can relive the itch and have a soothing effect on your eyes. Simply take a clean cloth, soak it in cold water, and apply to closed itchy eyes, repeating as often as needed.
Most cases of itchy eyes don’t last very long, and they might even go away on their own.
To be safe, see a doctor if:
- you feel there is something lodged in your eye
- an eye infection develops
- your vision starts to get worse
- your itchy eyes turn into moderate to severe eye pain
If you experience any of the above, discontinue home treatments immediately and visit your doctor.
Last medically reviewed on April 17, 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.
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Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O.D. — By Adrian White — Updated on July 3, 2019
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What to do if your eyes itch
Before taking any action to eliminate itching, you need to find out why this happened. The reason why the eyes itch or both can be both local and general.
The most common causes:
1. The ingress of foreign bodies – dust, specks, small insects, even improperly selected lenses can act as such. With the disappearance of the irritant from the eye, the itching gradually disappears;
2. Eye burns from ultraviolet radiation – often the factor that causes itching and pain in the eyes is ultraviolet radiation. You can harm your eyes not only on a beach vacation – enough reflected sunlight from the glaring surface of the water. In addition, you can get a retinal and cornea burn not only in summer, but also in winter, when freshly fallen clean snow outside reflects light ten times more than normal;
3. Swimming in untested open water or poorly cleaned pools – Swimming in chlorinated water can cause itching around the eyes. Pathogenic forms of damage to the eyelids are more likely to occur from swimming in open water, especially during the hot summer months in conditions of blooming water, when it acquires a greenish tint from actively breeding algae. And along with them, chlamydia also feel great. Especially rapid development of such microflora is observed in stagnant water bodies: ponds, lakes, especially small ones, where amphibians live together with fish.
4. Allergic reaction – anything can act as an allergen: tobacco smoke, plant pollen, inappropriate mascara, pet hair, window cleaner, etc. An allergy can be diagnosed if eyes not only itch, but also watery, plus rhinitis is observed. With allergies, the eyes swell, redden, open painfully, photophobia begins;
5. DES or dry eye syndrome – this phenomenon is observed in many who are associated with prolonged sitting at a computer or laptop screen. Older people suffer from dry eye syndrome due to dysfunction of the lacrimal glands. The disease worsens if a person is in an excessively dry or smoky room. You can get rid of unpleasant sensations by using preparations with artificial tears, periodically ventilating the working room, conducting gymnastics sessions for the eyes;
Important! Often a simple exercise helps to cope with the syndrome – close the eyelids and relax, make five circular movements of the eyes clockwise and five counterclockwise. Repeat three to five times.
6. Blockage of the lacrimal duct – burning in the eyes and their dryness can lead to blockage of the lacrimal ducts caused by fine dust or burning particles entering the eyes during prolonged atmospheric smoke. To get rid of unpleasant symptoms, try with clean fingers for several seconds to press the points located at the inner corners of the eyes closer to the bridge of the nose. And only if this does not help, and the tears do not start to go, you need to see a doctor;
7. Unsuitable lenses or wearing them incorrectly – in this case, it will help to remove the lenses and rinse the eyes with running water, if after a few hours the irritation has disappeared, and when the lenses are reused, the situation recurs, then you need to consult an ophthalmologist to check the organs of vision and, possibly , for the selection of new contact lenses;
8. Communicable diseases:
a. Conjunctivitis – it can be caused by fungi, viruses and bacteria – of the latter, chlamydia infection is the most unpleasant. Therefore, it is defined as a polyetiological lesion of the mucous membranes of the sclera and the inner surface of the eyelids. Most often one eye is affected, only then the inflammation of the conjunctiva passes to the second, most often this happens after the diseased organ was touched by hands, and then the healthy one was rubbed, after which the pathogenic microflora gets there.
b. Blepharitis is a disease similar to conjunctivitis, but more characteristic of inflammation of the entire thickness of the eyelids, especially in the region of the ciliary edge. An allergic form of blepharitis can appear from exposure to animal hair, cosmetics incompatible with skin type or even blood type, exposure to plant pollen, drugs and hygiene products. Therefore, during treatment, it is often necessary to consult an ENT specialist, dentist, dermatologist and even endocrinologist.
c. Barley is a purulent inflammation near the ciliary bulb or the sebaceous sac of Zeiss. The symptoms of the disease are as follows: the edges of the eyelids become inflamed and swollen, redden and cause pain when combed. In the vast majority of cases, barley is caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which is typical for an organism weakened by colds with a weak immune system. Dry, heated to 40-45 degrees, compresses help well.
1. Let your eyes rest first! Temporarily exclude from your schedule long work at the computer or with a smartphone and watching TV;
2. If you are sure of the origin of eye irritation, then stop contact with the pathogen;
3. If special medicines or prophylactic eye drops are not available, it is necessary to make lotions using cosmetic sponges soaked in strong brewed black tea and hold for 10-15 minutes;
4. Fresh chamomile tea prepared in a water bath may be used. Chamomile can be both flower and pharmacy;
5. Applying swabs soaked in freshly brewed calendula to the eye sockets will also help relieve irritation.
6. If itching is caused by dry mucous membranes and skin around the eyes, slices of fresh cucumber will help, which should be applied for 30 minutes 2 times a day.
Important! Folk remedies may help if itching is not caused by bacteria or viruses. Before the procedure, you must wash your hands with soap and strain the liquid well so that it does not contain foreign particles.
To prevent itchy eyes:
- Wear protective goggles on high UV days;
- Wear protective goggles when working at a computer, if most of the time is associated with its use;
- Do special eye exercises to prevent strain;
- Use only high-quality, proven cosmetics;
- For hygiene products, use clean personal towels or disposable wipes;
- During the course of the disease it is necessary to exclude the use of all cosmetic products;
- Increase immunity, spend more time outdoors.
Experts do not recommend tolerating the above symptoms. This is not a reason to panic, but a timely visit to the clinic, especially if folk remedies have not helped, will greatly simplify further treatment and get rid of discomfort.
Do your eyes itch? Read on to help yourself!
May 18, 2017
Although we were looking forward to the arrival of spring, for many flowering plants are associated with a wave of allergies – the eyes turn red and itch. How to reduce itching in the eyes?
Itching, sensitivity to light, redness, tearing and swelling of the eyes – these are the first signs of an allergy in the spring, associated with the beginning of flowering of some plants and shrubs, and they are not such a rare occurrence. The more you touch your eyes, the more they will itch, since scratching often exacerbates the manifestation of allergic reactions even more.
People say itching is caused by airborne pollen, but it is actually caused by histamine and other inflammatory substances that produce mast cells in the eye in response to allergens. Flower pollen causes the production of histamine.
If the eyes react to allergens only in the spring, most likely, we are talking about a reaction to pollen in the environment. If the problem persists all year round, the cause of the allergy may be a reaction to pet hair or dander, dust mites, molds, or even a reaction to contact lens material or liquid.
How to solve the problem ?
First of all, you need to give your eyes a rest: remove makeup and remove contact lenses. Washing your hands frequently is important to keep bacteria that cause inflammation or allergies from getting into your eyes from your fingers and making things worse.
For the treatment of allergy symptoms, various compresses on the eyes, for example, in the form of a gauze bandage moistened with cold boiled water, help well. You can also use special anti-allergic eye drops, but for starters, you should still prefer washing your eyes with cool boiled water – this is a more gentle and natural way.
- rest your eyes
- remove makeup and contact lenses
- wash your hands frequently
- apply a cold compress to the eyes
- use special eye drops
- rinsing/dropping into eyes with cool boiled water
After the symptoms have subsided, attention should be paid to further prevention, that is, to find out the cause of the allergy. If the latter is due to pollen spreading through the air, contact with it should be avoided, stay indoors more and keep windows closed. Wearing sunglasses will also help protect your eyes a little.
If the cause of the allergy lies in a reaction to pet hair or dander, dust mites, mold fungi, you should avoid contact with the allergen, wash your hands more often and wash your clothes. To fight dust mites, special blankets and pillows and bedding will help.
If you realize that your contact lens material or liquid is causing the allergy, you should replace it as soon as possible.