Causes And Risk Factors For Itchy Eyes
This condition is also known as ocular pruritus (1). It can be caused by various factors, like allergies, infections, and a few underlying medical conditions. The common causes of itchy eyes are:
Dry Eye Syndrome: Occurs due to lack of moisture and lubrication in the eyes (2). Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: The meibomian glands are located in the upper and lower eyelids and secrete oil. Clogging or abnormal development of these glands may result in an insufficient amount of oil in tears. This may cause the tears to evaporate quickly and results in dry eyes and irritation (3). Blepharitis: Blepharitis is a condition that leads to inflammation of the eyelids. This condition is caused by staphylococcal bacteria or eyelid mites (4). Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis: This is an allergic reaction caused by contact lenses that results in itching (5). Contact Dermatitis: This is an inflammatory skin condition caused due to environmental conditions (6). Infectious Conjunctivitis: Infectious conjunctivitis is caused when eyes are infected by viral and bacterial infections.
The factors that can increase your risk of developing itchy eyes are:
Dust, pollen, and animal dander Spending long durations in front of the computer Advancing age Menopause Environmental conditions like dry air, air conditioning, and smoking Medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea
The condition is characterized by the following signs and symptoms.
Symptoms Of Itchy Eyes
Itchy eyes Constant watering or dry eyes Swelling of the eyes Redness Sensitivity to light A burning sensation in the eyes
Itchy eyes may interfere with the day-to-day activities and need to be treated at the earliest. Here is a list of natural remedies that may help relieve the condition.
Home Remedies To Relieve Itchy Eyes
1. Cucumber Slices
Cucumber contains antioxidants (7). It has a soothing effect on skin irritations and reduces swelling (8). The cooling effect of cucumber may help ease the itching in your eyes. A cucumber Do this 1-2 times daily.
2. Cold Compress
The topical use of ice packs helps in the delivery of oil from the meibomian glands (9). It can also help soothe itching and irritation in the eyes. An ice pack Do this multiple times a day.
3. Tea Bags
The epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) present in green tea improves surface inflammation in dry eyes (10). Hence, the topical application of green tea bags may provide relief from itchy and dry eyes. Used green tea bags Do this whenever your eyes start itching.
4. Cold Milk
Anecdotal reports suggest that cold milk acts as a cold compress. Thus, the topical application of cold milk may relieve itchiness and swelling in the eyes.
1 tablespoon of cold milk Cotton pads
Do this 2-3 times a day.
5. Water
Water cleanses the eyes and may soothe the irritation instantly. Water Wash your eyes with purified running water whenever they feel itchy. Do this 2-3 times a day.
6. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel (Hamamelis) possesses natural anti-inflammatory and astringent properties (11). Hence, it may help in alleviating itchiness and inflammation in the eyes.
Witch hazel extract Cotton pads
Do this 2 times a day.
7. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera helps in soothing eye inflammation (12). Its topical application may help relieve symptoms associated with itchy eyes.
Aloe vera juice Cotton balls
Do this multiple times a day.
8. Castor Oil
Castor oil has a lubricant effect on the eyes (13). Hence, it may be a good option for treating itchy eyes.
Organic castor oil Cotton balls
Do this 1 to 2- times a day.
9. Potato
Anti-inflammatory therapies can help in treating dry and itchy eyes (14). The glycoalkaloids present in potatoes exhibit such anti-inflammatory properties (15). Hence, the topical application of potatoes may help in reducing itchiness and swelling in the eyes. A raw potato Do this 2-3 times a day.
10. Rose Water
Rose water has anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties that can improve dry and inflamed eye conditions (16). Rose water may be used as an effective eyewash.
Rosewater Cotton balls
Do this 2-3 times a day.
11. Honey
Honey possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties (17). It is considered a therapeutic agent and used for treating eye diseases (18). 1 teaspoon of organic honey Do this 2 times a day.
12. Essential Oils
a. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (19). These properties may help soothe itchy and inflamed eyes.
4 drops of lavender oil 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (Carrier oil)
Do this 1-2 times a day.
b. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (20). These properties may offer immediate relief from itchy eyes.
3-4 drops of tea tree oil 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (Carrier oil)
Do this 2 times a day.
13. Vitamins
The deficiency of a few nutrients may aggravate the symptoms of itchy eyes. Vitamins A, C, and E are important for the proper functioning of your eyes. Individuals with itchy eyes usually have a vitamin A deficiency (21). Vitamins C and E are beneficial for the overall health of the eyes and may be used to reverse many eye infections (22), (23). Citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, carrots, turnips, kale, mangoes, and cheese. Consume these vitamin-rich foods. Consume these foods often. While these remedies help reduce itching in your eyes, there are high chances of its recurrence if you do not follow these prevention tips.
Prevention Tips
Protect your eyes from direct sunlight and allergens by always wearing a pair of sunglasses. Do not wear contact lenses for long durations. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Avoid rubbing your eyes. Flush your eyes with cold water every now and then.
When to see a doctor for itchy eyes? You must see a doctor if you experience:
Sudden eye pain Vision loss Pain Visual changes Bulging eyes Signs of infection Too much of tearing
What are the best eye drops for itchy eyes? Itchy eyes are a common symptom of allergies, and in such cases, antihistamine eye drops can help. How long does it take for an eye irritation to go away? Normal itching in the eyes usually fades after a good night’s sleep. However, if the itching is due to an underlying infection, it may take one to two weeks to notice an improvement in your condition. What happens if you rub your eyes too much? Rubbing your eyes too much can cause micro-scratches on the cornea of your eye and damage it. In the short term, you may experience sensitivity to light, watery eyes, and redness from rubbing your eyes too much. In the long run, the cornea may get infected or develop scar tissue and seriously impact your vision.
