Itchy eyes

Causes of itchy eye

Itchy eyes are most often related to allergies or other minor conditions. Often they can be treated at home, but you might sometimes need medical attention.

Hay fever

This is the most common cause of itchy eyes in New Zealand. Pollen from trees, flowers or grass can trigger an immune response from your body, including swelling and inflammation. It's very common ‑ over a fifth of people in New Zealand have hay fever. 

Learn more about hay fever

Other allergies can also cause red, itchy eyes

like pet fur, dust mites or some medicines. If your eyes get itchy soon after starting something new (like birth control or antidepressants), speak to your doctor.

Other irritants around you

There are many things that can irritate your eyes and make them itchy. These include tobacco smoke, ash, dust, sand, workplace chemicals, alcohol, eye makeup and contact lens solutions. 

Learn more about the feeling of something in your eye

Problems with contact lenses

If you wear contacts, improper usage might cause dry, itchy eyes. If you forget to clean your lenses, wear them for too long, or wear them in the water (among other things), this can irritate your eyes and cause itching. 

Learn more in our contact lens guide

Computer eye strain

Staring at a screen for an extended period can cause dry, itchy eyes. At Specsavers, we recommend the 20‑20‑20 rule ‑ every 20 minutes, look at something 20 metres away, for 20 seconds. 

Learn more in computer eye strain

Skin issues

Eczema, dermatitis (skin irritation) and rashes on the skin around your eyes can cause itchiness that makes you want to rub them. You might also notice skin flaking.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a common eye condition that causes inflammation. One of the main symptoms is swelling, inflammation and itching along the edges of your eyelids. You might also notice your eyelids get stuck together.

Learn more about blepharitis

Conjunctivitis (red eye)

Conjunctivitis is a common infection of the thin membrane that covers the front of your eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.

Learn more about conjunctivitis

Dry eye syndrome

If your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears aren’t of the right quality to keep your eyes properly lubricated, you can develop dry eye syndrome. It can lead to dryness and itchiness.

Learn more about dry eye syndrome

Other diseases

There are a few other conditions that can cause itchy eyes (among other symptoms), though these are less common. Sjögren's syndrome, keratoconjunctivitis, and the autoimmune disease lupus can all cause red, itchy eyes.

Treatment for itchy eyes

Having itchy eyes can be very uncomfortable, especially if it's been going on for a while. The good news is that it can often be treated with simple home remedies and over‑the‑counter medication. But sometimes it might need more specialised care from your GP or optometrist. They'll advise you about how to stop itchy eyes. 
 
Here are some of the main itchy eye treatments.

Cold compress

Soak a clean cloth in cold water, wring it out, and place it over your eyelids. It can help calm the itch and reduce inflammation.

Flush your eyes

If dust or particles are the cause, gently rinse your open eyes with cool, low‑pressure water from a tap or shower for about a minute.

Over‑the‑counter antihistamines

Sometimes, it's impossible to avoid allergens. In this case, over‑the‑counter antihistamines are a good option. They can reduce your body's reaction to pollen, and other things like pet fur or dust mites.

Eye drops

Artificial tears can soothe itchiness and dryness. If it’s conjunctivitis, antibiotic drops may help. Your optometrist can guide you on what’s best.

Eyelid hygiene

Gently clean your eyelids with warm water each day. It helps with blepharitis and clears away pollen or makeup.

Treating skin conditions

If your itchy eyes are caused by eczema or similar dermatological issues, your GP can prescribe ointments and corticosteroid creams to treat the condition.

Removing foreign objects

If you have itchy or scratchy eyes caused by an object that's pierced your eye, don't try and remove it yourself. Seek medical help at the ED or a nearby optometrist.

Learn more about the feeling of something in your eye

How to prevent Itchy eyes

If you notice you often get itchy eyes, it’s important to find out the underlying cause so you can take steps to avoid it. Here are some tips for how to stop itchy eyes from happening.

Don’t rub your eyes

It might feel good, but rubbing can cause damage and won’t fix the cause of the itch.

Take screen breaks

Look away often, focus on distant objects and blink more to help stop dryness and itchiness.

Avoid triggers

If pollen, pet fur, smoke or dust set off your symptoms, steering clear can really help.

Keep pets out of your bedroom

If your itchy eyes are related to pet hair, try to keep animals out of your bedroom. This means you won't be as exposed to their hair and dander at night.

Wraparound sunglasses

This can be helpful if your itchy eye is caused by things getting in your eye. If you must spend time in dusty, smoky, sandy and windy places, these sunglasses can reduce your exposure.

Avoid smoking

If you smoke, then cutting back or stopping can eliminate one cause of itchy eye. Speak to your GP for advice on ways to stop smoking ‑ there's lots of help available.

Keep windows closed

During pollen season, you can reduce your exposure by keeping your windows closed. On days you must go outside, use antihistamines.

Air purifiers

Some people find that air purifiers can make a big difference to their allergies. These devices draw dust, pollen, air pollution and other fine particles out of the air inside your home.

Eyelid hygiene

Clean your eyelids daily and remove makeup before bed. If you wear contacts, don’t keep them in longer than recommended.