Infections and allergies are some of the most common eye issues people deal with daily. The eye conditions can make working or performing daily activities hard. If you have itchy and red eyes, you might assume it is due to allergies. 

Before you turn to OTC eye drops, you should determine whether you have allergies or an eye infection. Here is information on the difference between eye infections and allergies. 

Eye Infection or Allergies: The Difference

The symptoms are similar whether you are allergic to pet dander, mold, or pollen. People with allergies often experience intense itching and watery eyes. Other symptoms include eye redness, mucus discharge, blurry vision, puffy eyelids, and sensitivity to light. Infections can result from bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, and symptoms vary depending on the cause. 

Generally, you most likely have an infection if your eyes produce anything other than tear-like fluids. If you experience eye pain, it is most likely an infection. Eye allergies are uncomfortable, but they are not contagious. If you have an eye infection, you can spread it to others and risk suffering eye damage. 

Symptoms of Eye Allergies

They include:

• Eye redness

• Itching

• Burning sensation

• Clear watery discharge

Symptoms of Eye Infections

They include:

• Pain

• Gritty sensation

• Eye redness

• Burning sensation

• Itching

• Watery discharge

• Sensitivity to light

• Mucus-like discharge (viral infection)

• Thick discharge (bacterial discharge)

Tips to Avoid Eye Problems 

There are things that you can do to avoid eye infections and allergies. Keeping your windows closed can help keep allergens out of your home. An air purifier can also help keep out indoor allergies. 

Pink eye or conjunctivitis is the most common infection. It can result from bacteria or viruses and is easily spread. Avoid rubbing your eyes; washing your hands frequently can help prevent the spread of infections. It is also essential to be careful when using contact lenses and eye makeup. 

Treating Eye Infections

Most viral infections clear on their own, but eye lubrication and cold compresses can relieve them. If you suffer from a bacterial infection, your eye doctor can recommend antibiotic eye drops to treat the condition. Infections caused by parasites and fungi can be treated with medications depending on the root cause. 

Treating Allergies 

It is possible to treat eye allergies with topical medications. Eye drops are effective for reducing allergy symptoms. Some eye drops can even prevent an allergic reaction, preventing the development of the symptoms. Your eye doctor can recommend anti-inflammatory or steroid eye drops to treat your allergies. Some effective OTC drops help flush out allergens, preventing the reaction.

Regardless of your condition, visiting an eye doctor is the best way to determine whether you have an eye infection or allergies. The doctor can recommend the best treatment to provide the relief you need. 

For more about the difference between eye infections and allergies, call Albright Eyecare at (830) 271-4900 for our New Braunfels, Texas office.