Going through your day and unexpectedly running into a case of red and itchy eyes is never a good time. Understanding any eye care issues you may be dealing with and keeping consistent appointments with your optometrist can help alleviate immediate concerns.
But for now, let’s get to the bottom of your red and itchy eyes by exploring 5 reasons why you have red and itchy eyes.
Why Are My Eyes Red and Itchy?
Red and itchy eyes are common symptoms that can arise from several causes, ranging from environmental factors like allergens to medical conditions such as dry eye disease. Recognizing these causes can be the first step in finding relief and protecting your eye health.
5 Reasons for Red & Itchy Eyes
The appearance of red and itchy eyes can put a dent in your day and productivity. You’ll want to get to the bottom of why they appeared in the first place.
Let’s look at 5 reasons why red and itchy eyes may be affecting you:
- Allergy Season
- Dry Eye Disease
- Digital Eye Strain
- Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
- Blepharitis
What Causes Red Eyes and Itching?
Redness and itching in the eyes are often a result of inflammation, dryness, or strain. Factors such as seasonal allergies, extended screen time, or blocked oil glands in the eyelids can trigger these symptoms. Understanding the underlying cause can help in choosing the right treatment, from artificial tears to specific medications.
Allergy Season
Getting red or itchy eyes during allergy season can be confusing to some. Some people may think it’s an eye infection, but one way to tell is if you’re having other allergic reactions, such as sneezing and nasal congestion.
Some strategies to avoid contact with seasonal allergens include:
- Paying attention to local weather reports and stay indoors when pollen counts are higher.
- During the pollen season, keeping your home and car windows closed.
- Taking showers and washing clothes more often to help keep pollen away from your airways
- Wearing a mask when outside to prevent dust or pollen from getting to your airways.
Dealing with allergies may also prevent you from wearing contact lenses to find comfort—however, special contact lenses can provide relief during this period.
Acuvue Theravision can help provide long-lasting relief for your red and itchy eyes during allergy season and allow you to keep your ideal look.
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes cannot produce enough tears, or you’re unable to maintain a normal layer of tears to coat your eyes. Your tear film consists of 3 layers: fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus. This combination keeps your eyes lubricated, and any interruption to these layers can lead to dry eyes.
Some symptoms of dry eye disease include:
- Burning
- Redness
- Itchiness
- Watery tearing
- Stringy mucus
- Blurry vision
With dry eyes, you may notice your eyes feeling heavier from a lack of balance in your tear-flow system. Dry eyes can also bring on red and itchy eyes, so you’ll want to treat them as soon as possible.
Possible treatments for dry eyes include:
- Eye drops and artificial tears
- Using a humidifier to increase moisture
- Using a warm compress on your eyes
- Avoiding cigarette smoke
- Avoiding dry environments
Dry eye disease has some home treatments available. Still, if the condition persists, you should consult with your optometrist.
Digital Eye Strain
Staring at a phone or computer screen for long periods, whether for work or personal use, can strain your eyes, making them itchy and red. The blue light from your devices can trigger eye strain, so frequent breaks are recommended.
To combat this, practicing the 20-20-20 rule can help limit your screen time and give your eyes a rest.
Blue light prescription eyeglasses are also a good option against digital eye strain.
Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
A subconjunctival hemorrhage is simply a broken blood vessel in your eye and can cause redness. While the condition may look serious, it’s often harmless, and you won’t even know it’s there until you look in the mirror.
Some potential causes of a broken blood vessel in your eye are:
- Rubbing your eyes too hard
- Intense coughing or sneezing
- Vomiting
- Eye injury
The redness is typically the only symptom—however, if your vision is decreased, get in touch with your optometrist for more treatment options.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids and occurs when the oil glands at the base of your eyelashes are blocked. This blockage can cause red and itchy eyes, and keeping your eyelids clean is a potential solution.
While blepharitis won’t usually cause vision loss—it can be a chronic issue that leads to conjunctivitis or other complications. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to provide relief.
Red and itchy eyes can be caused by several things, some more serious than others, and it’s important to keep your optometrist updated.
Eye Irritation
Eye irritation may present as itching, redness, or a gritty feeling, often influenced by your surroundings. Common irritants include smoke, dust, and certain beauty products. Minimizing exposure and using protective eyewear can help prevent irritation.
Why Is One of My Eyes Red and Itchy?
If only one eye is red and itchy, it could be due to localized issues like a mild eye infection, an eyelash irritating the eye, or even a subconjunctival hemorrhage. An optometrist can assess whether it’s a minor irritation or something that requires attention.
Itchy Eyes in the Morning
Morning itchiness may be caused by overnight dryness or exposure to allergens. Some people also experience blepharitis-related symptoms when they first wake up, as oils from the eyelid glands may accumulate.
Itchy Eyes at Night
Nighttime itching might stem from allergens in your bedroom, such as dust mites or pet dander, or dry environments caused by heaters. Keeping your room clean, washing your pillowcases frequently, and using a humidifier can help.
Importance of Eye Care
Any potential vision issues are always a cause for concern, and staying on top of any possible symptoms is essential. Red and itchy eyes can be a gateway to other issues, and knowing what you’re dealing with is the first step in treatment.
Book an appointment with your optometrist today to learn more about red and itchy eyes and discover your treatment options.
