Red Itchy Eye | Infection or Allergies?

Infection or Allergies? Red Itchy Eye 

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

Conjunctivitis can be the result of an infection or allergies causing red, burning, itching or watery eyes. This can cause discomfort and can affect your day-to-day life, although it will typically resolve itself in a few weeks without treatment, there are options available to reduce symptoms, however, allergies and infection need to be dealt with using different treatments.

Allergies 

The majority of cases of itchy eyes tend to be caused by allergens irritating the eye, such as dust, pet hair, pollen or certain products like make-up or cream. When the eye comes into contact with the allergen it results in an increase in histamine, causing the eye to become swollen, itchy and red. It is normal for only one eye to be affected and this is non-contagious, meaning you won’t be able to spread it to another person, but if the allergen is passed to your other eye, you may find the same reaction occurs. Sometimes symptoms in the eye are accompanied by nasal symptoms such as itching, stuffy nose or sneezing.

Eye drops or mists can often help to alleviate symptoms quicker and eye washes help ensure any remaining allergen is removed from the eye.

Optrex Soothing Eye Drops for Itchy Eyes 10ml - £4.99 

Optrex Hayfever Relief Eye Drops 10ml - £6.80

If you suffer from hay fever regularly The Eye Doctor Hay Fever Eye Compress may help to soothe and cool your eyes, naturally relieving uncomfortable symptoms.

Infection

Bacterial conjunctivitis usually results in a yellow or green sticky discharge most noticeable first thing the morning when you wake up. Viral conjunctivitis normally causes a watery discharge. Antibiotic drops or ointment may speed up how quickly the infection clears, however, because the eye drops require refrigeration, we do not sell them online at brownspharmacy.com, they are available in store.