Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the surface covering the eye and inner eyelids caused by an allergic reaction. It commonly produces itchy, watery eyes, often alongside hay fever. It is not contagious, but infection and other eye conditions can look similar and may need an examination.

What symptoms fit an allergy?

Itching is a useful clue, particularly when both eyes are affected and symptoms follow exposure to pollen, dust or animals. Sneezing and an itchy nose may occur at the same time. Redness alone cannot tell you the cause. Thick discharge, marked pain or a change in vision should not be dismissed as hay fever.

Consider whether symptoms happen outdoors, around pets or at particular times of year. Keep a note of contact lens use and any new eye, face or cleaning products. These details can help distinguish an allergy from irritation or infection.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Conjunctivitis (pink eye) - treatment, symptoms and causes | healthdirect.

What can I do while arranging advice?

Avoid rubbing your eyes. A clean, cool compress may feel soothing, and reducing contact with a known trigger can help. Remove contact lenses if your eyes are irritated and ask when it is safe to wear them again. Do not share eye products or use someone else's treatment.

A pharmacist or doctor can discuss suitable options after checking age, other conditions and symptoms. Repeated episodes deserve a review rather than automatically repeating the same product. Persistent irritation can have more than one cause.

When should my eyes be checked urgently?

Arrange urgent in-person assessment for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision or substantial discharge. A painful red eye in a contact lens wearer needs particular attention. Sudden loss of vision is an emergency. An online photograph may help describe redness but cannot replace the equipment needed to examine the eye's surface and vision.

Where to go next

Read Doccio information about hay fever to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.