Itchy eyes feel uncomfortable and distracting, particularly if the irritation does not improve quickly. For many people, other symptoms may accompany itching in the eye. If itching and other eye symptoms appear to worsen, a person experiencing the discomfort should contact an eye care professional for an evaluation.
Allergies
Allergic reactions to pollens and other environmental irritants may result in itchy eyes. Other symptoms may include redness and watering, says the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. For many people who suffer from allergies, an oral antihistamine, either prescription or over-the-counter, may improve itching in the eye as well as sinus congestion. If oral medications do not relieve itchy eyes, allergy eye drops may ease discomfort. Most drug stores carry allergy eye drops, though some people may require a prescription eye drop for relief. In these cases, an eye doctor will note allergy symptoms in the eye during an examination and give recommendations for medications to improve the condition.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, a condition many people refer to as “pink eye,” may cause itching in the eye. This condition typically results from an infection on the surface of the eye. Along with itching, many people with conjunctivitis experience redness and discharge. In most people, conjunctivitis requires a prescription eye drop, such as an antibiotic drop, to relieve the condition. People with conjunctivitis should not touch their eyes since the condition is contagious, says MayoClinic.com. To help ease discomfort from itching eyes, gently place a cool compress on the eyelids a few times a day. With proper treatment, itching and discomfort should gradually ease after a few days.
Dry Eye
In addition to burning and irritation, dry eyes may also cause the eyes to feel itchy. This condition commonly affects older people, though people of any age may have dry eyes. To determine if a person has dry eye, an eye doctor will perform a test, called a Schirmer test, says the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The doctor puts a drop in the patient’s eye to numb the surface, then places a thin strip of paper against the inside of the lower eyelid. After a few minutes, the doctor will determine if the person does not make enough tears to lubricate the eye. Most eye doctors recommend using artificial tears frequently during the day, though, if this does not help, he may prescribe an eye drop used to increase tear production.
