What do itchy eyes mean

There are several possible causes of pink eye. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when an irritant gets into the eye and causes inflammation , or swelling, in the conjunctiva. Allergic conjunctivitis is uncomfortable, but it is not dangerous.

People with allergic conjunctivitis have several treatment options to relieve itching around the eye, including medicated eye drops and antihistamine pills.

Medicated eye drops are available from drugstores and can dilute the allergens that are irritating the eye. The active ingredient is ketotifen, which is an antihistamine. People may also find relief after taking antihistamine pills. Over-the-counter OTC products such as loratadine Claritin , cetirizine Zyrtec , and fexofenadine Allegra can all provide relief.

Viral conjunctivitis is very contagious, meaning that it spreads easily from person to person. It will usually go away on its own, but there are steps people can take to ease the symptoms. To prevent the spread of the virus, people should wash their hands thoroughly before touching their face and avoid sharing towels with others. Bacterial conjunctivitis is also highly contagious.

The bacteria that cause it can be the same as those that cause strep throat. Children are likely to get bacterial conjunctivitis because they are in close contact with others and may not wash their hands as frequently as adults. A doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops, depending on how severe the symptoms are.

To prevent the spread and reduce the chances of contracting bacterial conjunctivitis, the AAO recommend:. Learn more about bacterial and viral infections here. Normally, when a person blinks, the eyelid spreads tears across the front of the eye, or the cornea. This keeps the eye wet and washes away unwanted particles to help prevent infection.

Any tears left over after a blink flow into the back of the nose through the tear ducts, which are the drainage channels in the inner corners of the eye. If you experience chronic dry eyes, see an eye doctor. You may need medicated drops. Staring at a computer screen for a long time, or trying to read in a poorly lit area, can strain your eyes, causing them to feel itchy and tired. Driving for a long time, especially at night or on a bright, sunny day, can strain your eyes, too.

For some people, indoor heat or air conditioning can lead to strained, itchy, and irritated eyes. The best treatment is to simply rest your eyes periodically. If driving is putting a strain on your eyes, pull over and close your eyes.

Take a nap or switch drivers, so your eyes can focus on closer objects than a long stretch of highway or oncoming headlights. Keeping your contacts lenses in too long or failing to replace your lenses regularly can irritate your eyes, making them itchy and red. If you wear contact lenses, remember to take them out at night and follow other basic lens care steps. Red and itchy eyes may result from an inflammation of the eyelids known as blepharitis. It occurs when the little oil glands at the base of your eyelashes become blocked.

Sometimes just keeping your eyelids clean is enough to resolve blepharitis symptoms, which may also include watery eyes and swelling. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary to provide relief and avoid further problems.

Itchy eyes can be caused by a number of things, some more serious than others. If you find that you have frequent red, itchy eyes, talk with your doctor about treatment options. Eye allergies are often triggered by substances in the air, such as pollen or dust. Learn about causes, diagnosis, treatments such as eye drops, and…. Itchy eyes can be caused by such conditions as allergies, dry…. We'll explore a number of at-home, OTC, and prescription remedies that…. Allergic conjunctivitis is an eye inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen.

Your eyes may become red, itchy, and watery. Some individuals who experience severe VKC may go on to develop corneal ulcers and scarring. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the inner membrane covering the eye is irritated by an allergen. Some common causes of this allergic reaction include:. A form of eczema , this condition results in patches of dry and scaly skin.

It can be irritating to the skin surrounding the eye, as well as other parts of the body. When the eye lacks moisture and lubrication, dry eyes can ensue. The eyes are less protected and more sensitive to dust or other airborne particles.

This condition can lead to inflammation and scarring. The Meibomian glands are located in the upper and lower eyelids and are responsible for oil secretion. When these glands are blocked or develop abnormally, tears produced by the eyes will not contain enough of the oil needed to maintain moisture. This is a condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids in response to antigens produced by the staphylococcal bacteria and possibly eyelid mites.

Contact lens wearers may at times experience an infection from contact lens use. At times, the cornea can be damaged and become scarred.

This eye condition is often related to an allergic reaction of some sort and may present as large bumps under the eyelids. Dry eye occurs in people who produce fewer or lower quality tears. Find out what products are available for dry eyes and eye irritation. Read more on myDr website. Dry eye is a term used when the eye does not produce tears that lubricate the eye adequately.

The eye may feel dry, gritty and sore, but not painful. Dry eye is a common problem in the community with many causes for its development. Symptoms often develop once there are enough of the multiple factors that Read more on Glaucoma Australia website. Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eye produces fewer or poorer quality tears and is unable to maintain normal eye lubrication. It can also occur when the lacrimal glands are damaged, or when tears evaporate more rapidly than normal.

There is more than one type of dry eye disease and many risk factors. While most cases can be managed with lubricants, it is important to know which patients Read more on Australian Prescriber website. Read more on Better Health Channel website. It is caused by problems with the immune system.

Red eye is the term used when irritation or infection causes the eye to be red, itchy, watery and feel gritty. It's sometimes known as a 'bloodshot eye'.

The common cold or upper respiratory tract infection is a highly prevalent viral infection that can be caused by over types of viruses including some strains of the coronavirus family. It affects the nose, ears and throat. Read more on Ausmed Education website.

Death is a normal part of the life cycle. As a health worker or professional, it should be viewed as an honour and privilege to be part of the care provided to a person who is dying, and their loved ones. When caring for someone at the end of their life, it is important to know what to expect.