What to do about Itchy eyes and irritated eyes

Itchy eyes can be very uncomfortable and difficult to ignore. However, we all know that rubbing them will only make it worse. You need to deal with the cause of the itchiness first.

Itchiness is often due to allergy. Common causes of allergic reaction include pets, dustmites and airborne particles such as pollens.

When part of hayfever, itchy eyes & a runny nose are often calmed by taking oral antihistamines. If it is only your eyes that react, then you can apply topical remedies directly to the eyes.

For mild itching - artificial tears/eye lubricants can provide relief. The drops moisten the eyelids and flush out any irritating particles. Artificial tears are also the best remedy for mild dry eye.

For more intense itching - topical antihistamine eye drops may be useful. These are medicated, so they will sting when you first put them in. The antihistamine calms the allergic reaction and work best as temporary relief.

For severe seasonal itching or sufferers of Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis, it may be best to consider a Mast Cell Stabiliser.

Mast cell stabilisers are eye drops that help prevent an initial allergic reaction, but do need to be taken for a few months prior to the allergy season. Check with your Optometrist whether they are suitable for you. In some places, they may not be available over-the-counter.

Irritated eyes can also be part of an inflammation of the eyelids called Blepharitis. Follow the treatment of stye for an excellent remedy for blepharitis, too.