5 Reasons Your Eyes Might Be Itchy—And What to Do About It
Most people experience itchy eyes at some point in their lives. It’s a common issue, but the cause can vary widely, from seasonal allergies to prolonged screen time. The good news is that most cases of itchy eyes are easily treatable once you identify the cause.
Here are five of the most common reasons your eyes might be itchy and how to get relief.
1. Allergies: A Leading Cause of Itchy Eyes
If your eyes become red, watery, swollen, or itchy at certain times of the year or after exposure to specific triggers, you may have allergic conjunctivitis. This is an allergic reaction that occurs when your immune system overreacts to common irritants such as:
- Pollen (from trees, grass, and weeds)
- Dust mites
- Mould spores
- Pet dander
- Smoke or strong fragrances
How to Treat Allergy-Related Itchy Eyes
- Avoid allergens whenever possible. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and use an air purifier indoors.
- Wash your hands and face after spending time outdoors to remove pollen and dust.
- Use antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines to help block allergic reactions.
- Apply a cold compress to your eyes to reduce swelling and irritation.
If your eye allergies are persistent or severe, an optometrist can prescribe stronger treatments, including anti-inflammatory eye drops.
2. Dry Eye Syndrome: A Common but Overlooked Cause
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tear quality is poor. This leads to irritation, redness, a gritty sensation, and itchiness.
Dry eye is more common in:
- People over 50 (due to natural tear production decline)
- Women (especially those going through menopause)
- Individuals with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders
- People who wear contact lenses daily
- Those who spend long hours staring at screens
How to Treat Dry Eye Syndrome
- Use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) to keep your eyes hydrated.
- Blink more often, especially when using digital screens.
- Stay hydrated and consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and flaxseeds) to support tear production.
- Ask your optometrist about prescription dry eye treatments if over-the-counter drops don’t provide relief.
3. Eye Strain: Too Much Screen Time Can Cause Itchy Eyes
Do your eyes feel tired, dry, or itchy after hours of staring at a computer, tablet, or phone? You might be experiencing digital eye strain or Computer Vision Syndrome.
Eye strain is caused by:
- Prolonged screen time without breaks
- Blue light exposure from digital devices
- Reading or driving for extended periods without resting your eyes
How to Reduce Eye Strain
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Adjust your screen brightness to match the room lighting to reduce glare.
- Use blue light-blocking glasses if you work on screens for long hours.
- Take frequent breaks to rest your eyes and avoid working in dim lighting.
If eye strain is a frequent issue, your optometrist may recommend specialized computer glasses to reduce stress on your eyes.
4. Contact Lenses: Improper Use Can Lead to Irritation
If you wear contact lenses, they could be the source of your itchy eyes. Improper lens care or extended wear can cause dryness and irritation.
Common reasons contact lenses cause itchiness include:
- Wearing contacts for too long (especially overnight)
- Using expired or damaged lenses
- Not cleaning or disinfecting lenses properly
- Using contact lens solution that doesn’t agree with your eyes
How to Prevent Contact Lens Irritation
- Follow your optometrist’s recommended wear schedule.
- Use fresh, clean solution—never rinse contacts with water or saliva.
- Consider switching to daily disposable lenses if irritation persists.
- Give your eyes a break by wearing glasses periodically.
If you continue to experience discomfort, schedule an eye exam to rule out an infection or an allergy to your contact lens material.
5. Blepharitis: A Lesser-Known Cause of Itchy Eyelids
If your eyelids feel itchy, swollen, or flaky, you might have blepharitis—a condition caused by inflammation of the small oil glands near your eyelashes. This condition is often associated with:
- Bacterial overgrowth
- Dandruff on the scalp or eyebrows
- Rosacea or other skin conditions
While blepharitis doesn’t usually affect vision, it can cause persistent discomfort and increase the risk of developing pink eye (conjunctivitis).
How to Treat Blepharitis
- Gently clean your eyelids with a warm compress or baby shampoo.
- Use prescription or over-the-counter eyelid wipes to reduce bacteria buildup.
- If symptoms persist, ask your optometrist about antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
When to See an Optometrist
Most cases of itchy eyes are temporary and can be relieved with home remedies or over-the-counter treatments. However, you should schedule an eye exam if you experience:
- Persistent itchiness that doesn’t improve after a few days
- Severe redness, pain, or discharge (this could indicate an infection)
- Swelling that affects your ability to see
- Changes in vision, such as blurriness or sensitivity to light
Comprehensive Eye Care in Edmonton
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we believe that good eye health is key to your overall well-being. Our experienced optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose and treat conditions like dry eye, allergies, and blepharitis.
We also offer eyeglasses, contact lenses, and specialized treatments tailored to your vision needs.
Book an appointment today at one of our convenient locations in Edmonton, Leduc, or Westlock to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable year-round.
