Your itchy eyes may be telling you that you have eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, a condition that affects 58 million Americans.10 The following are the primary causes of itchy allergy eyes — the #1 complaint of allergy sufferers.3      Pollen The most widespread cause of itchy allergy eyes Released from grasses, trees, and weeds in spring, summer, and fall Checking the pollen counts can be helpful when planning outdoor activities To check your local pollen count click here www.pollen.com      Dust Mites The primary cause of indoor allergic conjunctivitis Found in furniture, curtains, towels, and especially in mattresses and bed sheets Your bed contains about 2 million of these microscopic creatures      Mold Flourishes in warm, moist, and dimly lighted areas of your home Once established, a mold colony is visible as dark spots or streaks Usually worse during humid and rainy weather      Pet hair and dander Pet dander is tiny bits of scaly skin shed by cats and dogs Exposure occurs when handling an animal or from household dust and furniture that contains these particles Pet hair collects dander, pollen, mold spores, and dust, which can trigger itching    Air pollution and smoke Air pollution and smoke cannot trigger an allergic response, but they can make your symptoms worse Exposure may irritate your eyes, causing itching, tearing, and redness It is important to minimize your exposure to these irritants Here are some things you can do to reduce your exposure to allergens that irritate your eyes: Wash your hands, face, and hair frequently to keep them free of allergens, and keep hands and fingers away from your eyes.   Use air filters, and make sure your home is vacuumed regularly.   Avoid or reduce outdoor activities when the pollen counts are high.   Close windows and doors to help keep allergens out.   Eliminate sources of mold around your house.   Click here for references

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