references
Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Why Are My Eyes Itchy? Answers From an Expert”
Mayo Clinic: “Food allergy”
Mayo Clinic: “Contact dermatitis”
Cleveland Clinic: “Itchy, Red Eyes? How to Tell If It’s Allergy or Infection”
American Academy of Ophthalmology: “The Benefits of Fish Oil for Dry Eye”
National Eczema Society: “Eczema around the eyes”
Is this an emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.
The best remedy for itchy eyes depends on what's causing the scratchy feeling.
Image Credit: stefanamer/iStock/GettyImages
Image Credit: stefanamer/iStock/GettyImages
- Seasonal Allergies
- Food Allergy
- Eye Infection
- Dry Eye
- Eczema
- Medications
- Contact Dermatitis
- When to See a Doctor
When your eyes are itchy, your first reflex is likely to rub them for some relief, but try to resist the urge. Rubbing your eyes can tear the top corneal layer, producing pain and potentially causing an infection, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
For some people, a food allergy can cause a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms include, per the Mayo Clinic:
Constriction and tightening of the airways A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe Shock with a severe drop in blood pressure Rapid pulse Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical treatment immediately as anaphylaxis may can lead to a coma or even death, according to the Mayo Clinic.
- Constriction and tightening of the airways
- A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe
- Shock with a severe drop in blood pressure
- Rapid pulse
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical treatment immediately as anaphylaxis may can lead to a coma or even death, according to the Mayo Clinic.
“If it’s clear that your itchy eyes are due to a seasonal or food allergy, it’s very important to get tested to learn about your allergic triggers so you can be aware and avoid them,” Dr. Ogden says. “That will also allow you to be prepared with medications that you may need and should be used at the first hint of symptoms."
Never apply over-the-counter steroid creams near your eyes.
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Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Why Are My Eyes Itchy? Answers From an Expert”
Mayo Clinic: “Food allergy”
Mayo Clinic: “Contact dermatitis”
Cleveland Clinic: “Itchy, Red Eyes? How to Tell If It’s Allergy or Infection”
American Academy of Ophthalmology: “The Benefits of Fish Oil for Dry Eye”
National Eczema Society: “Eczema around the eyes”
