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What Causes Your Eyelids to Itch?

What Causes Your Eyelids to Itch?

           itching eyes due to dry eyes

No matter how accustomed to it you may have become, the constant urge to rub or wipe your eyes is not a natural state. Itchy eyelids are displaying irritation to some kind of trigger, from something in the air or improper contact lens usage to a chronic eye problem. That annoying itch is going to continue until you address its underlying cause. Here at Naples Eye Physicians, we're happy to serve as your itchy eyelid experts, so let's take a look at this irritating condition, including its causes and its solutions.

A momentary itching of the eyelid is probably nothing more than a passing speck of dust or some other minor irritant. But if you suffer from constant or recurring bouts of itching, then the culprit may be:

  • Allergies - Dander, smoke, pollen and other allergens can cause a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis. This reaction in the membrane lining your inner eyelids and conjunctiva can cause itching, redness (the characteristic "pink eye"), watery discharge, and swelling.
  • Infections - In addition to allergic reactions, the itching of conjunctivitis is also caused by viral or bacterial infections. The main difference is that viral conjunctivitis produces a clear discharge, while bacterial conjunctivitis is often accompanied by a thick discharge.
  • Blepharitis - Blepharitis is a chronic condition that causes itching and irritation of the upper or lower eyelid. It often occurs alongside dry eye, light sensitivity, and other issues.
  • Meibomian gland dysfunction - The meibomian glands in the eyelids provide oil for your tears. If they become blocked, the tear film becomes too watery and evaporates, leaving you with an itchy case of dry eye.
  • Contact lenses - in some individuals, the accumulation of proteins on contact lenses cause a condition called giant papillary conjunctivitis, characterized by the formation of uncomfortable bumps inside the eyelids.

Dry Eye Treatment and Other Answers

Bring your itchy eyelids to either of our two Naples ophthalmologists for an accurate diagnosis and effective symptoms relief. Based on the underlying cause we discover, we may prescribe various kinds of dry eye treatment, from unblocking your meibomian glands to providing soothing eye drops.

Conjunctivitis can respond well to basic home remedies such as warm compresses; we can also prescribe antihistamines, anti-viral drugs or antibiotics to treat those particular causes. Blepharitis can be eased through regular eyelid cleansing and minimal use of eye makeup. If giant papillary conjunctivitis is your problem, we will evaluate your choice of contact lenses and possibly recommend a different kind of lens less likely to accumulate irritating proteins.

Consult the Eye Doctor Naples FL Trusts

If you're ready to stop itching and start enjoying life again, talk to our team at Naples Eye Physicians. Whether you see Dr. Rougraff or Dr. Byrerly, you'll be getting the care you need from an eye doctor Naples FL trusts. Call 239.262.6288 today for an appointment so we can relieve your discomfort!