Itchy eyes can drive you crazy! Whether it’s a mild annoyance or an all-day distraction, figuring out what’s causing the itchiness is the first step to relief. At SIGHT in West Hartford, we help patients find lasting relief from itchy eyes by identifying the root cause and offering advanced treatments like OptiLight IPL therapy for dry eye.
Let’s look at some common causes of itchy eyes and the remedies that can help relieve your discomfort.
Common causes of itchy eyes
There are several reasons why your eyes might be itchy, from environmental factors to underlying medical conditions. Here are a few of the most common culprits:
1. Allergies
Seasonal allergies are one of the main causes of itchy eyes. Pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold can all trigger allergic reactions that make your eyes itch, water, and turn red. If you notice your symptoms are worse during certain times of the year (like spring or fall), allergies could be the problem.
Remedy:
- Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamine eye drops can help reduce allergic reactions.
- Keep windows closed during high pollen days and avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can make the itching worse.
2. Dry eye
Surprisingly, dry eye can also make your eyes feel itchy. When your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears, they become irritated and uncomfortable. Many people think of dry eye as just causing a gritty or burning sensation, but itchiness can be a symptom as well. However, itching is usually more intense with allergies than dry eye.
At SIGHT, we offer dry eye treatment in West Hartford to help you find lasting relief from dryness and discomfort. One of the treatment options we offer is OptiLight IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy. OptiLight targets inflammation and helps restore proper tear production. This can provide significant relief from dry eye symptoms, including itching.
3. Contact lens irritation
If you wear contact lenses, they can contribute to your itchy eyes. Contacts can dry out your eyes or trap allergens and debris against the surface of your eye, causing irritation. Wearing your contacts for too long or not cleaning them properly can worsen the issue.
Remedy:
- Follow your optometrist’s guidelines for proper contact lens care.
- Give your eyes a break by switching to glasses occasionally, especially if your eyes are dry or irritated.
4. Digital eye strain
Spending long hours staring at screens without blinking enough can dry out your eyes and cause itching. With all the time we spend on our phones, tablets, and computers these days, digital eye strain is a common cause of discomfort.
Remedy:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
- Use artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated when using screens for extended periods.
5. Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a condition where your eyelids become inflamed, causing itchiness, redness, and even some crusting around your lashes. It’s often caused by bacteria or skin conditions like dandruff or rosacea.
Remedy:
- Warm compresses can help relieve discomfort.
- Gently clean your eyelids with a mild cleanser or baby shampoo to remove bacteria and debris.
When to see an eye doctor
If your itchy eyes are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like blurry vision, it’s time to see an eye doctor. At SIGHT, our West Hartford eye doctors have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating dry eye and other causes of eye discomfort. We’ll work with you to get to the bottom of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment for relief. Whether it’s dry eye, allergies, or another cause, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to help your eyes feel comfortable and clear again.
Give us a call today to schedule an eye exam in West Hartford!