As an eye doctor, one of the most common complaints I hear from patients is: “My eyes won’t stop itching—do I have allergies?” If you’ve asked yourself the same question, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience itchy, red, watery eyes due to ocular allergies, especially during seasonal changes. It is that time of year again when the mild weather invites us to spend time outside, but Mother Nature may have something else in mind: allergies. Thanks to our mild climate, allergy season arrives earlier in Phoenix than other cities. A recent study by Quest Diagnostics, which examined the ragweed sensitization rate in different parts of the country, found that Phoenix now ranks among the country’s worst cities for allergies.
Those affected by allergies know the symptoms all too well. In addition to a stuffy, itchy nose and sneezing, many experience red, swollen, and itchy eyes. Allergies can also cause the eyes to water, burn, or be light-sensitive. Understanding what causes and how to treat this discomfort can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.
What Are Ocular Allergies?
Ocular allergies—allergic conjunctivitis—are your eyes’ reactions to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold, or even contact lens solutions. When these irritants come into contact with the surface of your eyes, your immune system responds by releasing histamines. That release causes itching, redness, swelling, tearing, and a gritty or burning sensation.
Symptoms can be:
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Seasonal, triggered by outdoor allergens like tree or grass pollen.
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Perennial, caused by indoor allergens such as pet hair, dust, or mold.
Common Symptoms
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Itching (often intense)
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Redness
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Tearing or watery eyes
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Burning or stinging
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Sensitivity to light
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Mucus discharge (usually stringy and clear)
If you experience any combination of these symptoms, especially if they flare up in specific environments or during spring or fall, you may have ocular allergies.
Tips to Avoid Allergens
The most commonly recommended treatment for allergies is to try to prevent them by avoiding allergens. This involves keeping our car windows closed and spending more time indoors, primarily when pollen is emitted at 5 to 10 AM. It is also wise to avoid freshly cut grass and mowing the lawn. Machine-drying linens and clothing may also help because these can collect pollen when dried outside. We can also consider taking a vacation when the pollen concentration is particularly high. Wearing glasses outside is also advisable because it decreases our eyes’ exposure to allergens. You can check the pollen forecast in your area.
Relief from Eye Allergies
While avoiding allergens is the best way to prevent allergy symptoms, it’s not always easy. Avoiding pollen might mean staying indoors during spring or summer; avoiding dust mites could require major lifestyle changes. Fortunately, other options are available:
1. Cool Compresses
Applying a cool compress over your closed eyes can instantly reduce itching and swelling. It’s an easy and natural remedy that many people overlook.
2. Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help flush allergens from the eye’s surface and form a barrier against new ones. These don’t treat the allergy itself but can reduce discomfort.
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Recommended brands: Refresh®, Systane®, TheraTears®
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Choose preservative-free formulas if you plan to use them frequently.
3. OTC Antihistamine Eye Drops
If those strategies don’t work, your eye doctor may recommend over-the-counter anti-allergy eye drops such as ketotifen. These drops block histamine release and provide long-lasting relief from itchiness and redness.
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Best options: Alaway® (ketotifen), Zaditor® (ketotifen), Pataday® (olopatadine)
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These drops are generally safe for daily use and offer 12–24 hour relief.
If needed, your doctor may also recommend prescription allergy eye drops, which are extremely effective. Some patients may benefit from prescription steroid eye drops or even immunotherapy (allergy shots), which help your body build tolerance to allergens over time.
Avoid “Redness Relief” Drops
It’s important to understand that over-the-counter eye drops advertised to “get the red out” are not a good treatment for ocular allergies. These drops are decongestants. While they may work for a few days, they can worsen symptoms with continued use and cause rebound redness.
Avoid Oral Antihistamines
Oral medications like loratadine (Claritin®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®), or fexofenadine (Allegra®) can help reduce allergy symptoms like sneezing or congestion. However, they often don’t fully relieve eye symptoms and may even dry out your eyes, making irritation worse.
Talk to Your Eye Doctor
If your symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter solutions, it’s time to talk to your eye care professional. They can determine whether ocular allergies are the true cause of your discomfort and help you find the right treatment.
With proper care and guidance, you can get back to clear, comfortable vision and enjoy your time outdoors again.
Reviewed by Robert Fintelmann, MD