Why Are My Eyes Always Red and Itchy?

Have you ever stared into the mirror, wondering why your eyes are red and itchy? You’re not alone—this frustrating issue is all too common. Whether triggered by seasonal allergies, dry environments or unforeseen irritants, the causes of red, itchy eyes can differ significantly. Identifying the root of your discomfort is the first step toward relief, and in this article we’ll explore the most common culprits behind this eye irritation and what you can do to find soothing solutions. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to clarity!

When it comes to red and itchy eyes, several common conditions may be the culprit. Allergic conjunctivitis is a frequent offender, occurring when your eyes react to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites or mold. Symptoms often include not only redness and itchiness but also watery discharge and a gritty sensation. Another possibility is dry eye syndrome, which results from insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. This condition can lead to dryness and irritation, manifesting as redness, itchiness and a burning sensation, along with excessive tearing as your eyes attempt to compensate for the dryness.

Infectious conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, can also cause significant irritation. This condition is triggered by bacterial or viral infections and typically results in inflammation of the conjunctiva. You may experience redness, itchiness and discharge—watery in cases of viral infections and thicker for bacterial ones. Blepharitis is another condition to consider; it involves inflammation of the eyelid margins, often due to bacterial overgrowth or skin conditions. Symptoms include red, itchy eyes, swollen eyelids and crusting or flakes around the eyelashes.

For contact lens wearers, contact lens irritation can arise from improper care or prolonged use, leading to redness, itchiness and discomfort, including sensitivity to light. Additionally, environmental irritants such as smoke, pollution or strong chemicals can provoke similar symptoms, which typically improve once you are away from the irritant. More serious conditions like episcleritis or scleritis involve inflammation of the outer layers of the eye, resulting in localized redness, tenderness and sometimes pain. Finally, the sensation of a foreign body—like dust or an eyelash—in your eye can cause irritation, leading to a gritty feeling along with redness and itching. 
Understanding these potential causes is essential for finding effective relief and maintaining your eye health. A quick visit to your ophthalmologist at Skyline Vision Clinic can identify the reasons behind why your eyes are always red and itchy and provide you with not only strategies to rid irritation but allow for clearer and more comfortable vision. Call today at 719-630-3937 or learn more at WEBSITE.