Choosing the best eye drops for itchy eyes will typically depend on what is causing the problem. If your eyes are itchy due to excessive dryness, a simple moisturizing drop will often help, though chronic dry eyes may require a prescription. Medicated drops that include ingredients like mast cell stabilizers, antihistamines, or decongestants, which may be available over the counter or by prescription, are usually best if the itching is the result of allergies. If you suspect that your itchy eyes are the result of an infection such as bacterial conjunctivitis, your doctor may need to prescribe you antibiotic eye drops to clear it.
Your eyes may get itchy if they become dry from things like spending long periods of time in dry air or staring at a computer screen all day. To relieve temporary itching and dryness, you may want to try a moisturizing drop such as simple saline or one designed to mimic natural tears. There are many types to choose from that can be purchased easily over the counter. If you have chronic dryness, however, your doctor may recommend prescription-strength eye drops for itchy eyes.
Allergies are frequently the reason that people need to find eye drops for itchy eyes. Pet dander, dust, and pollen are all common triggers for eye allergies, and if you are someone who suffers from them, there is a variety of drops that can ease the itching. Decongestant drops can help, though they should only be used for limited periods of time due to the possibility of dependency, so read their instructions carefully. To control the histamines causing the itching in your eyes, you may want to try drops that contain mast cell stabilizers or antihistamines. Mast cell stabilizers can be used before allergic reactions start to prevent symptoms, while antihistamines can help once an attack has started.
The right eye drops for itchy eyes are sometimes ones that treat an underlying infection. The most common type of infection that makes eyes itch is conjunctivitis; if your itchy eyes are also red, swollen, or have a discharge coming out of them, you should speak to a doctor to see if that is what you have. Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria or a virus, and if the infection is viral, medicated eye drops will not help. For bacterial conjunctivitis, however, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotic drops for you.