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Common Conditions We Treat at Vitality Urgent Care

Condition icon: Eye
Eye Allergies

Eye allergies happen when the eyes react to pollen, pet dander, dust, or mold. Itchy eyes are the main sign, often with redness, tearing, and puffy eyelids. Eye allergies are not contagious and are very common.

What Is It

Eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, often flare in spring and fall and around pets. They usually affect both eyes and come with sneezing or a runny nose. Rubbing the eyes makes the itch worse.

Symptoms

  • Itchy eyes, often in both eyes
  • Redness of the whites of the eyes
  • Watery eyes
  • Puffy or swollen eyelids
  • Burning or gritty feeling
  • Sneezing or a runny nose at the same time

Not sure it’s allergies? Red eyes with thick yellow or green discharge may be pink eye. Sneezing and congestion with itchy eyes may be seasonal allergies.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the eyes and eyelids and checks your vision. Treatment may include antihistamine eye drops, allergy medicine by mouth, or prescription drops for stronger symptoms. Contact lens wearers may need extra care.

At home:

  • Use a cool compress on closed eyes
  • Rinse with artificial tears to wash out allergens
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes
  • Keep windows closed on high pollen days and wash your face after being outside

Most eye allergy flares improve within a few days of treatment.

When to Get Care for Eye Allergies

Most eye allergy flares can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.

FAQ

What causes itchy eyes?

Itchy eyes are most often caused by allergies to pollen, pet dander, dust, or mold. Dry eyes, contact lenses, and blepharitis can also cause itching.

How do you stop itchy eyes fast?

To stop itchy eyes fast, use a cool compress, rinse with artificial tears, and avoid rubbing. Over the counter antihistamine eye drops can help.

How can I tell eye allergies from pink eye?

Eye allergies usually cause itching in both eyes with clear, watery tears. Pink eye from infection often causes thick discharge and may start in one eye.

Are eye allergies contagious?

No, eye allergies are not contagious. They are a reaction to allergens and cannot spread from person to person. Washing your hands and face after pet contact still helps.

Can urgent care treat eye allergies?

Yes, urgent care can treat eye allergies. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine the eyes, rule out infection, and discuss treatment. No appointment or referral is needed.

Can I wear contacts with eye allergies?

Contacts can make eye allergies worse by trapping allergens. Wearing glasses during a flare can help the eyes heal faster. Clean or replace lenses often.

Last reviewed October 2026

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