Why Are My Eyes Itchy and Watery? Allergic Conjunctivitis Explained

Do your eyes feel itchy, watery, and irritated? You could be suffering from allergy pink eye, formally known as allergic conjunctivitis. Unlike the most common viral or bacterial pink eye, allergy pink eye is not contagious. Instead, it’s your body’s reaction to allergens like pollen, dust, mould spores or pet dander. The good news? It is quite common and can be easily managed with the right care and treatment.

 

Person with red, irritated eyes

Allergic Conjunctivitis | What Is It?

Allergic conjunctivitis, also known as allergy pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva due to airborne allergens. The conjunctiva is the thin membrane that covers the inside of your eyelids and the white part of your eyeball. Because of its sensitivity, it can easily become irritated (and therefore inflamed) by foreign substances that get in your eye, especially during spring, summer, or hay fever season. Allergic conjunctivitis is common and occurs when your body reacts to substances as though they were harmful.

 

What Causes It?

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by allergens such as pollen (which can come from flowers, trees and grass), mould spores, pet dander and dust mites. You can also get it from environmental irritants like air pollution, perfume and smoke.

Person with swollen eyes

 

Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis

People with allergic conjunctivitis normally complain of:

  • Itchy or irritated eyes
  • Redness in the white area of the eyes
  • Swollen or puffy eyes
  • Excessively teary (or watery) eyes
  • Burning or stinging sensation
  • Stringy yellow-white discharge

 

If you notice a thick, yellow or green discharge, it may be an infectious condition, such as pink eye, rather than an allergy-related issue. 

How Do You Know It’s Allergic Conjunctivitis? Take the quiz to find out


 

Different Types of Allergic Conjunctivitis

There are different types of allergic conjunctivitis. Some are more common than others. These include seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, perennial allergic conjunctivitis and acute allergic conjunctivitis. You also get more severe types like atopic keratoconjunctivitis, which is common in people suffering from asthma and eczema, and Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis, which affects little boys.

Acute Allergic Conjunctivitis: This is when symptoms appear suddenly, due to the body responding to a specific known allergen.

Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis: Also called Hay Fever Conjunctivitis, this type of conjunctivitis is caused by airborne allergens like mould spores, trees, grass, or pollen. It occurs seasonally, usually around spring, early summer, or late winter.

Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis occurs all year round. It is caused by allergens that are present throughout the year, such as dust mites or animal dander.

Person with itchy eyes. A sign of allergic conjunctivitis

 

How to Treat Allergic Conjunctivitis| Treatment and Management Tips

At home:

  • To soothe itchy, swollen eyes, apply a cold compress
  • To rinse out allergens from your eyes, use artificial tears
  • After spending time outdoors, wash your hands and face. This helps you eliminate allergens that may have adhered to your hands and skin while outside.

Over-the-counter medications:

  •  Artificial tears (lubricating drops) help rinse off allergens and keep the eyes moist.
  • Lubricating drops provide moisture and help relieve dry eyes
  • Oral antihistamines are best used if symptoms extend beyond just your eyes. They will not only help you ease your eye symptoms, but also other symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose that occur due to allergic reactions.

 

Should You See an Optometrist?

While managing your symptoms at home can offer a quick relief and over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms, you must see an optometrist when:

1.        You’re not sure if it’s allergic conjunctivitis. Its symptoms can appear similar to symptoms of viral and bacterial conjunctivitis.

2.        Your eyes are too swollen, painful or your vision is blurry. These are signs that it could be something more serious.

3.        Your symptoms don’t improve after home remedies, using OTC options, or if they keep coming back.

4.        You wear contact lenses, which can lead to allergen buildup and possible infections. It’s best to switch to glasses during allergy seasons.

An optometrist will examine you and prescribe stronger medications that are targeted to your specific condition and aren’t available over the counter.

 

We advise against self-diagnosis based on what you’ve read or seen online, as you might miss crucial elements that an optometrist might pick up. Book an Appointment with your optometrist as soon as possible and speak to them about your condition. It’s advised to have your eyes examined every 1-2 years.

 

I Have This Problem Every Year. How Can I Prevent It?

If you’re someone who suffers from allergic conjunctivitis around the same time every year, it’s important to make a routine of the following:

  • Use air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens
  • Wear prescription glasses or sunglasses to create a barrier to protect your eyes
  • Keep the windows at home and in your car closed during allergy seasons, especially if it’s windy
  • Shower and change clothes after being outdoors
  • Keep lubricating drops at home for emergencies
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