Condition guide
Itchy Eyes
Itchy, irritated eyes driving you crazy? Find relief from itchy eyes with the right eye drops and treatments.
Find the right medicineTreatment and relief options
- Antihistamine eye drops for allergic itch
- Artificial tears to flush allergens and moisturise
- Avoid rubbing eyes - worsens irritation
- Cold compress for soothing relief
- Identify and avoid allergens (pollen, pets, dust)
When to get help
- Severe eye pain or vision changes
- Discharge with crusting (infection)
- Light sensitivity with eye pain
- Foreign body sensation that won't clear
- Itchy eyes with breathing difficulty
Good to know
Itchy, red or dry: telling them apart
Itchy eyes are most often caused by allergy. Allergic conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes with a clear, watery discharge, often alongside sneezing or an itchy nose, and it isn't contagious. If your nose is involved too, see hay fever. Yellow or green sticky discharge points to an infection instead, which is covered under red eyes. Eyes that mainly feel gritty, stinging or burning, particularly after long screen sessions, fit dry eyes better, although dry eye can itch as well.
Putting drops in, and contact lens wearers
Artificial tears can rinse pollen off the surface of the eye, and antihistamine eye drops may ease allergic itch. To put drops in, wash your hands, rest a finger on your cheek and pull the lower lid down, then tilt your head back and let the drop fall behind the lower lid without the nozzle touching your eye. If you wear contact lenses and your eyes become sore, red or watery, or you notice discharge, take the lenses out straight away and contact your optometrist or other eye care professional. A pharmacist or optometrist can help you choose suitable drops.
Sources: healthdirect — Itchy eyes; healthdirect — Conjunctivitis (pink eye); healthdirect — Dry eyes; Better Health Channel — Eyes: flash burns; Better Health Channel — Eyes: contact lenses
Frequently asked questions
Allergies (pollen, dust, pets), dry eyes, or conjunctivitis. Persistent itching needs evaluation.
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Medical disclaimer
This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for you.