Eye Itching
This page will help you answer your questions.
What is Eye Itching?
Eye itching is an uncomfortable sensation that causes rubbing and scratching of the eye.
What are the causes of Eye Itching?
- If you’re experiencing eye itching, some of the most common causes include:
- Dryness, especially during winterdue to dry air.
- Allergies, particularly common during allergy season, when there are more allergens in the air.
- Eye strain, which can lead to dryness.
- Inflammation and infections in the cornea, eyelid, or conjunctiva.
- Improper contact lenses.
Foreign bodies in your eyes, such as sand or an eyelash.
How is Eye Itching managed? Tips to help reduce eye itching.
- Once allergies are identified as the cause of your itchy eyes, your doctor will work to find the best treatment plan for you. Preventive measures during allergy season can provide relief from itchy eyes, such as:
- Showering every night to remove accumulated allergens from your skin, eyelids, hair, and face.
- Make sure to wash your hands after touching animals.
- Change your bedding frequently.
- If you’re dealing with a mild case of allergy-related itching, a cold cloth can temporarily relieve discomfort.
- Frequent use of moisturizing eye drops can alleviate symptoms.
- Anti-allergy eye drops or oral medications.
- If you wear contact lenses, it’s essential to replace them according to their expiration date.
If you use contact lenses, consult your ophthalmologist to consider an alternative type of contact lenses if the irritation does not lessen. Daily disposable lenses may also be an option.
Remember that, in addition to any treatment you receive, the best way to help prevent the worsening of your eye itching condition is to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
When should you see a doctor?
Occasional eye itching is normal. However, if you experience eye itching accompanied by redness, pain, or discharge, consult an ophthalmologist. If you have a bacterial infection, you’ll need to use medically prescribed antibiotic eye drops.
If your eye itching is caused by dry eyes, allergies, or a chronic issue, an ophthalmologist can help determine the cause and explain different treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions:
I have an itchy eye. Does this mean I have a disease?
