Itchy Eyes And Its Causes

Allergic reactions happen when the surface of the eye is exposed to allergens. The reaction results in the release of histamines, resulting in itchy, red, watery eyes. Rubbing your itchy eyes is highly discouraged. While you rub your eyes, you release more and more histamines, which results in worse symptoms. You may also scratch or cause other trauma to the surface of your eye by rubbing the itch.

Itchy eyes can be caused by various eye conditions too. Dry eyes are known to cause discomfort and irritation. Blepharitis, a non-contagious eye disorder caused by bacterial or skin conditions, also causes itchy eyes. With blepharitis, the eyelids become dry, scaly, and itchy. Typically the eyelashes fall out. Sometimes eyelashes grow back abnormally—a condition known as trichiasis, which may lead to irritation of the eyeball.

Some people could be allergic to their contact lens solutions, which may cause redness, discomfort, itching, and inflammation. Thimerosal, a preservative used in ophthalmic products and found in many contact lens solutions, is one of the main culprits in allergic reactions to contact lens solutions.

If a person has been already diagnosed with allergies, it is probably safe to say the allergies are the cause of your itchy eyes. Like many other conditions, allergies develop with age. If you have never had allergies before, but notice you develop symptoms around certain smells or foods, or at certain times of year, you should seek medical attention. Typically you would see an eye care specialist like an ophthalmologist for eye problems, but for allergies you should see an allergist or dermatologist. Any of these professionals can help determine the cause of your itchy eyes.

To diagnose specific allergies, one or more of the following tests may be preformed:

• Allergy skin test
• Blood test for allergies
• Food allergy test
• Physical examination

Your eye doctor may examine the affected eye to determine whether you are suffering from allergic conjunctivitis. Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, your medical history, your diet, and your lifestyle.

Tips for Preventing Itchy Eyes

Preventing itchy eyes caused by allergies is simple: avoid the allergen. If avoiding the allergen is not possible, it is wise to talk with your health care provider about preventive options such as eye drops, oral antihistamines, and decongestants. Visit your eye doctor regularly to watch for developing eye conditions such as blepharitis that could lead to itchy eyes. When working around chemicals, wear safety goggles. If you think you may be allergic to your contact lenses or lens solution, talk with your eye doctor about the problem. Take a look at these tips for preventing itchy eyes indoors and outdoors.
Indoors:

• Vacuum regularly to reduce dust and pet dander.
• Keep your windows shut to reduce outdoor allergens.
• Keep your pets out of bedrooms or areas you spend a lot of time in.

Outdoors:

• Watch the news to check the pollen counts. Pollen counts are the highest between 5:00 am and 10:00 am.
• Dry your clothes in a dryer, not outside. Outdoor allergens stick to the fabric of your clothes.