Are your itchy eyes a sign of an infection or an allergy?
| Allergy |
Infection |
Immune system’s response to common allergens such as pollen, dust, or animal dander |
Caused by a virus or bacteria or protozoa |
Tell the difference by the symptoms
| |
Allergy |
Infection |
| Red eyes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Itching |
Yes |
Yes |
| Severe itching |
Yes |
No |
| Burning sensation |
Yes |
Yes |
| Clear, watery discharge |
Yes |
Yes |
| Gritty feel in eyes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Both eyes affected |
Yes |
Yes if viral, no if bacterial |
| Pain |
No |
Yes |
| Sensitivity to light |
No |
Yes |
| Thick yellow discharge |
No |
Yes – Bacterial |
| Accompanied by a fever |
No |
Yes |
How to treat itchy eyes?
| Allergy |
Infection |
- Allergy eye drops
- Oral antihistamine
|
- Viral infections symptoms can improve with eye drop medications
- Take antibiotic eye drops for bacterial infection
|
If you are concerned about your itchy eyes, or if you’re experiencing unusual symptoms, consult an eye specialist to get a clear diagnosis and treatment options available.
Article reviewed by Dr Chng Nai Wee, ophthalmologist at Parkway East Hospital
Reference
Jacquelyn Cafasso (10/12/2018) Do I Have Pink Eye or Allergies? Retrieved on 01/07/2019 https://www.healthline.com/health/pink-eye-or-allergies#treatments