Allergic Conjunctivitis: Symptoms, Fast Relief, and Simple Prevention
Red, itchy, watery eyes right after being outside? That's often allergic conjunctivitis — your eyes reacting to pollen, pet dander, mold, or dust. Start with quick steps that help right now, then use the prevention tips so it happens less often.
Fast at-home relief
First, wash your hands and avoid rubbing your eyes. Rubbing makes inflammation worse. Rinse your eyes with clean water or saline to flush out allergens. Apply a cool compress for 5–10 minutes to ease itching and swelling. Repeat as needed.
Over-the-counter artificial tears are safe and help dilute allergens on the eye surface. For stronger symptom control, look for OTC antihistamine eye drops that contain ketotifen — they work fast and can be used twice daily. Oral antihistamines (like cetirizine or loratadine) also help, especially when you have sneezing or a runny nose too.
If you wear contact lenses, take them out until symptoms clear. Soft lenses can trap allergens and make irritation worse. Use daily disposables during allergy season if you must wear lenses, and always clean reusable lenses exactly as your eye care provider recommends.
Prevention and daily habits
Cut your exposure: keep windows closed during high pollen times, use air conditioning, and run HEPA filters if you can. After being outside, change clothes and shower to remove pollen. Groom pets regularly and keep them off beds and couches.
At home, vacuum with a HEPA-filter vacuum, reduce indoor humidity to limit mold, and dust surfaces with a damp cloth. For dust-mite reduction, use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers and wash bedding in hot water weekly.
If seasonal allergies trigger your eye symptoms every year, start allergy medicine a week or two before the season begins. Allergy shots or prescription allergy tablets can help long term — ask your doctor if these are right for you.
For children, choose eye drops labeled for their age and follow dosing carefully. Many kids respond well to artificial tears and cool compresses. If a child’s eyes look infected (yellow discharge, crusting, or pain), get medical care rather than assuming it’s allergies.
Know when to see a doctor: if you have severe pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, intense redness that won’t improve, or symptoms that last more than a week despite home care, schedule an eye exam. A provider can rule out infection, prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory drops, or suggest other treatments like mast cell stabilizers.
Allergic conjunctivitis usually gets better with simple steps and the right medicine. Use avoidance strategies, OTC drops, and sensible habits to reduce flares. If things don’t improve or you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, reach out to an eye care professional — better safe than sorry.
