• Red, irritated eyes.
• Itchiness.
• Tearing or runny eyes.
• Swollen eyelids.
• Soreness, burning, or pain.
• Sensitivity to light.

Try Some Eye Drops

Most over-the-counter drops for eye allergies have the same medications used to treat nasal allergies: 

• Antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers block the release of itch-causing chemicals your body makes.
• Decongestant drops shrink blood vessels in your eyes, which eases redness.
• Tear substitutes rinse away allergens and keep eyes moist.

People with certain conditions should not use some types of eye drops, so ask your doctor. Prescription options may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids.

Create an Action Plan

There’s a lot you can do to take the sting out of your eye allergies. Work with your doctor to set a plan in place to stop future attacks.

Take a Hands-Off Approach

It’s hard not to touch them, but it’ll only make things worse. Rubbing causes mast cells to release more of those itch-causing chemicals. These things can help: If you wear contact lenses, take them out. Skip the eye makeup, and apply cool compresses to your eyes. Use preservative free artificial tear drops to wash allergens out of your eyes. Wash your hands often.

Cover-Up Tips

Apply a hypoallergenic concealer to help hide dark circles. Don’t try to cover up with heavy makeup — it’ll only call attention to your red, watery eyes. Instead, emphasize another feature. Wear a killer shade of lipstick, for example.

Outdoor Triggers

If your eyes well up when you go outside during spring or summer, you may have seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Grass, tree, and weed pollens are the worst offenders. When pollen counts are high, stay indoors, keep your windows closed, and run the air conditioner. Wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.

Indoor Triggers

Pet dander, dust mites, and molds top the list. They can cause symptoms all year long. If you have a pet, keep him out of your bedroom. Can’t resist playing with Fluffy or Fido at a friend’s house? Wash your hands ASAP when you’re done. Change clothes as soon as you go home.