When your eyes are itchy and red, you will try almost anything to reduce the irritation. However, knowing what causes itchy eyes can help you find the right treatment and relieve yourself of its symptoms.

For example, the difference between allergy and infection symptoms is essential and needs to be understood so as not to worsen the condition.

Here are eight reasons for itchy eyes and some possible treatment options by LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles, including home remedies and prescription drugs.

Seasonal allergy

If your eyes feel itchy at the same time each year, you may be allergic to ragweed or other things that bloom and release pollen all year round.

One way to tell if it is an allergy rather than an eye infection is that you also have other allergic reactions, such as sneezing and stuffy nose.

Allergic symptoms are triggered by histamine, an anti-allergen compound released by cells. Histamine sometimes causes an inflammatory reaction, and itchy eyes are one of the common symptoms of histamine at work. One way to reduce the symptoms of histamine is to avoid exposure to seasonal allergies. Strategies include:

• Pay some attention to local weather reports, and stay indoors when pollen counts are high.
• Nearby homes and car windows during the pollen season.
• Bathe and wash clothes frequently to keep pollen away from the respiratory tract.
• When you must be outside, wear a pollen mask.
• Over-the-counter antihistamines can help control symptoms.

Perennial allergies

Unlike seasonal allergies, you might suffer from perennial allergies throughout the year. Allergens like mold, dust, and pet dander can cause perennial allergy.

Apart from this, you may also be allergic to certain products at your home. For example, the soap or shampoo you are using may be the problem.

To determine if you are allergic to certain things or conditions, go to the nearest physician and perform skin tests. Apply only small amounts of allergens, such as ragweed or pet dander, under the skin to see if the skin shows any reaction. These tests are safe for children and adults. Once you get the results, avoid all those environmental changes or things that cause allergy. 

Aerial irritants

Some people are sensitive to smoke, diesel exhaust, and even certain perfumes. Avoiding these irritants is the simplest solution. Using soothing eye drops or a cold, damp cloth with your eyes closed may help you feel better faster.

Infection

Your eyes are susceptible to viruses, bacteria, and fungi-all of which can make your eyes itchy.

Ophthalmic conjunctivitis is a more common eye infection, also known as a pink eye because the white part of the infected eye becomes pink. It is highly contagious and is often accompanied by drainage of the affected eye.

Another possible eye infection is called uveitis, which is inflammation of the iris-a part of the eye is colored. Uveitis can cause eye pain and extreme sensitivity to light.

Both types of infections should be evaluated and treated by  LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles. Antibiotics can be used to treat conjunctivitis. Steroids may also be necessary. Anti-inflammatory eye drops may be sufficient to treat uveitis.

Dry eye

Tears are a mixture of water, oil, and mucus that keeps your eyes moist and fresh. For various reasons, your eyes may stop producing enough tears causing dry and itchy eyes. Old age can be one of the causes. With age, the production of tears tends to weaken.

Similarly, diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can reduce tears. Some drugs list dry eyes as a possible side effect. These include:

• Antidepressants
• Drugs that lower blood pressure
• Contraceptives
• Congestion medicine

Your eyes may also be dry because tears evaporate too quickly. If you stay in the wind for a long time or in a shallow humidity environment, you may have noticed that your eyes have become dry and itchy. Occasionally, lacrimal glands or obstruction of the lacrimal glands can cause dry and itchy eyes.

Eye fatigue

Staring at a computer screen for a long time, or trying to read in a poorly lit area, may fatigue their eyes and make them feel itchy and tired. Driving for long periods, especially at night or on sunny days, can also tire your eyes.

If you force yourself to widen your eyes and stay awake when you are tired, you may also fatigue your eyes. For some people, room heating or air conditioning can cause eye strain, itching, and inflammation.

Use of contact lenses

Contact lenses that are too long or cannot be replaced regularly can irritate the eyes, making them itchy and red.

If you are tired of using contact lenses, consult with any of the top-rated LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles to find out if you are eligible for LASIK surgery. 

Blepharitis

Red and itchy eyes may be caused by inflammation of the eyelids called blepharitis. This happens when the small oil glands on the bottom of the eyelashes are blocked. Sometimes just keeping the eyelids clean is enough to resolve the symptoms of inflammation of the eyelids, including watery eyes and swelling.

Blepharitis usually does not cause vision loss. This can be a chronic disease that causes conjunctivitis and other complications. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed to relieve symptoms and avoid further problems.

Itchy eyes may be uncomfortable sometimes, and it can get worse. If your eyes are often red and itchy, go to the nearest LASIK eye center in Los Angeles to talk to a surgeon about treatment options.