Ophthalmologist Questions Allergies

My eyes are red and itching badly. Why is this happening?

Since last night, my eyes have turned red and are itching very badly. There's a slight burning and they are watering. There is also a slight swelling around the eyes. What should I do - is this allergies?

12 Answers

These symptoms are usually related to allergies but a complete ophthalmologic exam should be performed to diagnose and treat accurately.
It is likely allergies, see an Ophthalmologist.
More than likely this is allergy, but it may be accompanied by dry eye also.
While it is possible you are suffering from all allergic reaction you may also have an infection. Is there any discharge other than watering? If not, this is either a viral conjunctivitis or an allergic conjunctivitis. Have you had a cold recently? Is there a small possibly tender nodule by the bone in front of your ear? Where your eye crusted shut this morning? If any of these answers are yes then you may have a viral conjunctivitis which is generally h9ighly contagious. There is not really any FDA approved treatment for viral conjunctivitis, however cold compresses may help relieve some of the itching. On the other hand if this is an allergic reaction to something you were exposed to yesterday then cold compresses work well to alleviate both the itching and calm the reaction. It is essential either way not to rub your eyes as this will create a reaction that perpetuates the allergy. It is certainly worthwhile to go to the drug store and get some eye allergy drops, Zaditor or some other product and use as directed.
If there has been a little itching and redness that has become progressively worse over a period of days or weeks then you likely have a condition called Blepharitis which is treated with hot compresses and massage.
This looks like allergy, but it may also be viral conjunctivitis.
If you noticed any blurry vision see an ophthalmologist right away, otherwise cold compress and cold artificial tears should help with the symptoms, use over the counter antihistamine pills and drops
Possibly, but more likely represents blepharitis or “dandruff of the eyelids.” A good remedy is to use a few drops of Johnson’s no tears baby shampoo and with your eyes closed tight scrub your eyelashes and eyelids while you shower once daily. There is also a foam product called “Sterilid” which works the same way. If no better in a week, see an eye doctor.
John Jarstad, M.D. Associate Professor, University of Missouri-Dept of Ophthalmology
Most likely allergy but could be infection. Seek medical advice if it doesn’t clear up in a day or so with OTC allergy medication (drops and/or oral).

G. Pomerance, M.D.
Did you google it?
This is why people GO TO their doctor. To find out WHY this is happening TO YOU. If you just want to know all of the possible causes for your symptoms, just google it.

Dr. S.
These are certainly all the hallmarks of allergic response. If the vision is normal and there is no pain, then you can try to self treat. Over the counter anti-allergic drops like Zaditor or Naphcon-A actually work well. A systemic allergy pill like chlorpheniramine can also be of use, but remember the side effect of these which is sleepiness so take the first one at night. Rarely one discovers the source of the allergy, but most times it is an unknown exposure. You can play detective if there is repetition. If the vision is down or there is pain, then consult with an ophthalmologist. 
Your symptoms and signs do indeed sound most consistent with allergic conjunctivitis or adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, which is extremely contagious. I recommend you see an ophthalmologist (MD) for a definitive diagnosis.
Yes, most likely you are experiencing allergies. There are a few prescription eye drops that work well for these allergies. Pataday works very well, although maybe expensive depending on the insurance you have. Azelastine also works well without the heavy price. Unfortunately for both eye drops, it is not over-the-counter and must be prescribed by your ophthalmologist. You can also try Allegra (which is over-the-counter) to see if it helps.
If it's the first time you have it, it could be due to infections, dust particles, over strain or Dryness, or a new allergy. Systematic factors like a flu maybe considered. Allergies are usually recurrent associated with running nose and pollen or pollution.