People with itchy eyes often have a difficult time not rubbing their eyes. In most situations, this doesn't relieve the itching or improve any other symptoms, and it may cause the eye to feel more uncomfortable. Anyone with itching in the eye, discomfort or changes in vision that does not show improvement should contact an eye doctor for an evaluation.
Conjunctivitis
Many people experience itchy eyes when they have conjunctivitis, an eye infection frequently referred to as "pink eye." The infection causes the inner eyelids and the white of the eye to become red and inflamed, and often results in irritation and itching. Depending on the cause of the infection, an eye doctor may prescribe a medicated eye drop to help with comfort, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. In some cases, a medication doesn't improve the condition, and a person must allow the eye to heal on its own. A person may choose to keep over-the-counter artificial tears in the refrigerator; the cool drop on the eye often soothes itching and discomfort.
Allergies
Pollen, pet dander or other allergens may cause eyes to itch. Seasonal allergies commonly affect the eyes, and using over-the-counter allergy eye drops or prescription allergy drops may help improve itching and redness, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says. For some, an oral antihistamine also helps during allergy season. To help avoid allergic reactions with the eyes, a person should wash her hands after contact with pets or other known substances that may cause a reaction. Depending on the severity of the reaction, a cool cloth held against closed eyelids may improve itching and overall comfort.
Dry Eye
The surface of the eye needs moisture for lubrication and nourishment. In some people, the eye may not produce enough tears, or they may have low-quality tears. When this occurs, the eye often feels scratchy--as though a foreign body is in the eye--and many people experience itching. Artificial tears often help relieve symptoms, but in some cases the drops may not help. An eye doctor may choose to prescribe drops that stimulate tear production or perform a minor procedure that closes off the tear ducts to help keep the tears from draining, says the University of Illinois at Chicago's Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences.
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