Causes of Red, Itchy Eyes: Eye Allergies, Conjunctivitis and More

One of the easiest ways to identify pollen as a cause of eye irritation is to try an antihistamine. If that burning, stinging redness subsides, you may be on the right track. If it does not help at all, you will need to do some further investigation.

Possible causes of red, itchy eyes:

• Dust
• Pet dander
• Cigarette smoke
• Cleaning products
• Laundry detergents
• Personal hygiene products
• Makeup
• Improper care of contact lenses
• Medication
• Digital eye strain
• Dry eye
• Conjunctivitis

On the days your eyes are irritated, do some journaling. Take notes on the weather and your activities that day, paying attention to when you began feeling eye pain. If you can look back on the day’s events and compare your notes to other days that week, it may help you isolate the perpetrator.

Sometimes, in spite of your best efforts, you have to hang up your detective hat and call an expert. In that case, make an appointment with a board-certified ophthalmologist for a full eye exam and consultation. An eye doctor can evaluate your vision, diagnose the source of your eye irritation and help you find relief.