Why Do Eyes Itch From Allergies?
Eye allergy itch occurs when your eyes react to substances called allergens. Your immune system then releases a substance called histamine, causing the eyes to become itchy.
Eye Allergens
Allergens are everywhere. Some common allergens are pollen, ragweed, dust mites, mold and pet dander
Pollen
Found seasonally
Outdoors
Pollen travels through the air when trees, weeds, and grasses release it in tiny grains to fertilize other plants. Get the jump on pollen with our pollen tracker.
Ragweed
Found in late summer/early fall
Outdoors
Ragweed pollen is a common trigger for hay fever and can be found everywhere in the U.S. Keep a close eye on the pollen tracker during ragweed season.
Dust Mites
Found year-round
Indoors
Dust mites are usually found in warm, humid areas of the house-most often the bedroom.
Mold
Found year-round
Indoors
Mold commonly grows near damp areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, or basement.
Outdoors
Mold grows on rotting logs, in compost piles, and on grasses and grains.
Pets
Found year-round
Your car, house, and public areas
Proteins found in a pet's dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine can cause an allergic reaction.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
Itchy eyes are the most common symptom of eye allergies.
Other symptoms to watch out for include:
Watery Eyes
Red Eyes
Runny Nose
Sneezing
Eye Allergy Tips
There are plenty of things you can do to limit your exposure to allergens and find some relief. Here are a few tips:
Outdoors
Wear glasses and a hat
Keep car windows up
Shower nightly to wash away any pollen on skin/hair
Indoors
Wash off pet dander
Vacuum often
Keep windows closed during high pollen periods
Eye Allergy Relief
Eye allergy itch relief drops are available to help target the itch at the source and give you relief that lasts. There are prescription strength eye drops available over the counter.