Itching is strongly associated with allergy but can also reflect dryness or lid disease. It often prompts eye rubbing, which can worsen problems.
Major Causes
Seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis, contact lens reactions, and atopic eye disease are leading causes of itchy eyes. Dry eye and blepharitis can feel itchy or sore, and some topical medications or cosmetics induce contact allergy.
- Itching is typically bilateral and accompanied by redness and watering in allergy
- Lid margins and lashes may itch in blepharitis or eczema
- Rubbing the eyes increases swelling and risk of corneal damage
- Long‑standing vigorous rubbing is linked with keratoconus in susceptible individuals
Control
Avoiding triggers, using cold compresses, and applying anti‑allergy drops help relieve itching. Persistent or severe symptoms should be assessed to tailor therapy and rule out other disease.
- Preservative‑free antihistamine or mast‑cell stabiliser drops may be recommended
- Stopping offending cosmetics or drops often improves contact allergy
- Patients should be counselled on safer alternatives to rubbing, such as gentle cooling
- Underlying atopic or dermatological conditions may need systemic treatment
