What causes itchy eyes and how to relieve them
Nov 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, itchy eyes may be caused by environmental irritants, poor eye-use habits, allergic conjunctivitis, bacterial conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through proper care and medication under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, maintain good eye hygiene, use separate towels and basins for the face, and disinfect them regularly.
Generally, itchy eyes may be caused by environmental irritation, poor eye habits, allergic conjunctivitis, bacterial conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general care, medication, and other methods. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Environmental irritation: Foreign substances such as pollen and dust entering the eye, or dry air irritating the ocular surface, can easily cause itchy eyes. Wear protective goggles when outdoors, regularly clean indoor areas to remove dust, use a humidifier to maintain proper humidity, and gently rinse the eyes with saline solution if foreign objects enter the eye.
2. Poor eye habits: Frequent eye rubbing or prolonged use of electronic devices can introduce bacteria and exacerbate eye fatigue, leading to itchy eyes. Avoid rubbing the eyes with hands, wash hands frequently, take a 5-minute break every 30 minutes when using electronic devices, and look into the distance to relax the eyes.
3. Allergic conjunctivitis: After exposure to allergens such as dust mites or pollen, an allergic reaction occurs in the conjunctiva, manifesting as itchy eyes and tearing. Avoid known allergens and, as directed by a physician, use antiallergic eye drops such as olopatadine hydrochloride eye drops, sodium cromoglycate eye drops, or levocabastine hydrochloride eye drops to relieve symptoms.
4. Bacterial conjunctivitis: Bacterial infections of the conjunctiva (e.g., by Staphylococcus) cause inflammation, resulting in itchy eyes accompanied by yellow purulent discharge. Follow medical advice to use antibiotic eye drops or ointments such as tobramycin eye drops, levofloxacin eye drops, or erythromycin eye ointment, and complete the full course of treatment to prevent recurrence.
5. Blepharitis: Inflammation caused by bacterial infection or abnormal sebum secretion at the eyelid margin leads to itchy eyes, redness, and flaking along the eyelid edges. Apply warm compresses with a clean, warm towel to the eyelids for 10 minutes daily, and use medications such as tobramycin-dexamethasone eye ointment, metronidazole gel, or chloramphenicol eye drops as prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
Maintain good eye hygiene in daily life; use separate towels and basins for the face and disinfect them regularly. Eat foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots and egg yolks, and avoid spicy or irritating foods. Comprehensive eye care can help relieve discomfort effectively.
