How Can I Treat Itchy Eyes?

Do you avoid rubbing your itchy eyes?

Do you use over-the-counter eye drops (artificial tears or eye drops specifically designed for allergies)?

Do you apply cool and moist compresses to closed eyes (take a clean cloth, soak it in cold water and apply to closed itchy eyes)?

Have you consulted your ophthalmologist to determine the most effective treatment for your itchy eyes?

If seasonal allergies cause itchy eyes, have you taken all protective measures to reduce contact with allergens (close windows, change bedding, take a shower every night to remove accumulated pollen from skin, eyelids, hair and face, etc.)?

If seasonal allergies cause itchy eyes, do you use oral medications that contain antihistamines?

If seasonal allergies cause itchy eyes, have you talked to your ophthalmologist about immunotherapy?

If the itchy eyes are the result of an infection, do you use antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or special eyelid cleansers prescribed by your ophthalmologist?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways to treat itchy eyes. It is important to avoid rubbing itchy eyes. Rubbing your eyes will cause the release of histamine which will further aggravate the itching. Also, rubbing can get bacteria into your eyes and possibly cause an eye infection. You can alleviate the symptoms with over-the-counter eye drops. You can use artificial tears for dry eyes or eye drops specially designed for allergies and redness. It is best to choose eye drops without preservatives. You can also apply cool, moist compresses to closed eyes to soothe the itching. You can repeat the procedure several times a day.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about treating itchy eyes. The most effective treatment for itchy eyes is one that addresses the cause. If your symptoms are the result of seasonal allergies, you should take all protective measures during the high pollen season. You should use anti-allergy eye drops or oral medications that contain antihistamines. You can also try allergen immunotherapy, which involves daily exposure to allergens that you are sensitized to, so that over time you become more tolerant of them. However, if your itchy eyes are the result of an infection or dry eye, they will need a treatment plan specific to those conditions.