Have you ever noticed your eyes itching while you’re at work or spending time outdoors? It’s something almost everyone experiences at one point or another, but if the problem becomes routine, it can affect your comfort, vision, and quality of life.
At Wide Eye Optometry in Encino, Santa Clarita, and Palmdale, California, Mary Demirjian, OD, and our team know how uncomfortable itchy eyes can be. Here, we highlight common causes of itchy eyes, explain when to seek expert care, and provide at-home tips for relief.
In most cases, itchy eyes are linked to everyday triggers or minor conditions rather than serious eye disease. Some of the most common causes include:
Environmental allergens are everywhere. Spending time outdoors can expose you to pollen or mold, while pet hair, dust mites, and dirt indoors can have similar effects.
Some people are sensitive to environmental factors, like smoke, pollution, or fragrances from perfumes and colognes. Contact lenses can also make your eyes itch if you don’t take them out regularly and keep them clean.
Using electronic screens for work or pleasure makes you blink less, which can end up drying out your eyes. Without proper lubrication, your eyes are more likely to feel uncomfortably dry and itchy.
More commonly known as pink eye, conjunctivitis can make your eyes itchy and irritated.
When itchy eyes strike, try ruling out some of the most common causes first. For example, if you wear contact lenses, remove them and wear glasses for a few days instead. If the itching worsens when you’re outside working in the yard, wear protective glasses to shield against allergens in the wind.
If your symptoms continue for more than a week or so, the itching may be due to an underlying eye problem, especially if it occurs alongside other issues, such as redness, discharge, swelling, or blurred vision.
The good news is that most cases of itchy eyes can be managed at home. Here are a few of our top tips for relief:
Lastly, avoid rubbing your eyes, which can make itching worse by triggering more irritation.
Most instances of itchy eyes improve with at-home care, but contact us if your symptoms last more than a few days. If you’re unsure, scheduling an eye exam is always a safe choice.
Even though itchy eyes rarely point to a serious eye problem, a comprehensive screening can provide peace of mind and protect your vision.
If you’re struggling to manage itchy eyes on your own, we can help. A quick exam can help identify the underlying cause and provide tips to help you feel better. Schedule a visit at your nearest Wide Eye Optometry office in Encino, Santa Clarita, or Palmdale, California, today.