Common Causes of Itchy, Red Eyes
Red and itchy eyes have many possible causes. The most common culprits include allergies, viruses, bacteria, and fungi. A few examples include:
- Conjunctivitis: Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer covering the white part of your eye. Viruses and bacteria can cause infectious pink eye. Allergic pink eye isn’t usually an infection but can become one if untreated.
- Blepharitis is eyelid inflammation, often caused by bacteria or skin conditions like dandruff. Although it starts as inflammation, it can lead to other conditions, like pink eye.
- Keratitis: A cornea infection, keratitis can be bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic. Improper contact wear is often the underlying cause.
- Uveitis: A rare condition, uveitis causes inflammation in the eye’s middle layer. Uveitis isn’t itself an infection but is often a response to one.
These are only some reasons your eyes may be itchy and red. Knowing eye infection symptoms can help you get help quickly.
Symptoms to Watch For
There are a few telltale signs that your red, itchy eyes are an eye infection versus allergies. Alongside the redness and itching, common signs of an eye infection are:
- Burning
- Eye discharge: may be clear, thick, or mucus-like
- Eye pain
- A gritty sensation in your eyes
- Light sensitivity
As eye infections progress, they may affect your vision, causing blurriness or issues. If you have these symptoms, contact your optometrist immediately.
Treatment Options
Every patient is unique, so your doctor tailors treatment. Your doctor may prescribe:
- Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops for bacterial or viral infections
- Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve swelling and discomfort
- Strict eyelid-cleaning routines
In most cases, conservative treatment works, and patients have no permanent eye damage. The sooner you see the doctor, the less you need to worry about dangers like vision loss.
Are you concerned about red, itchy eyes and what they mean for your eye health? Schedule an appointment with your optometrist. If your optometrist needs specialized help tackling this often-challenging eye issue, invite them to email Mark Mandel, MD, with questions. If you need surgery, you can count on us for the highest level of expertise and empathetic care.
You can schedule a consultation in one of our convenient locations in Hayward, Castro Valley, San Jose, and Concord. Call us now at 877-210-2020 ext. 3 or book an appointment online using our convenient form.