Eye allergies and hay fever
Itchy eyes and hay fever: eye allergy care in Reservoir.
Recurring itch and watering may be allergy-related. An eye assessment helps check the cause before you choose treatment.
If your eyes play up around pollen, pets or dust, tell us about the pattern. Reservoir Spectacles can assess your eye symptoms and explain appropriate next steps, including referral when needed.
Seek prompt assessment rather than assuming it is hay fever. For sudden vision loss or severe symptoms, go to an emergency department or call 000. See Urgent Eye Care.
Recognising the pattern
What can eye allergy look like?
Itch and watering
Allergic conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes. They may look red or puffy and water more than usual.
Seasonal symptoms
Pollen can trigger symptoms alongside sneezing or a runny nose. Other triggers, including dust mites, mould and animal dander, can cause problems throughout the year.
Not every red eye is allergy
Infection, eyelid irritation and other eye conditions can look similar. Sticky discharge or persistent symptoms deserve a check. Our Red Eyes guide explains the broader warning signs.
Allergic conjunctivitis itself is not contagious, but an infectious cause of redness can spread. Do not assume the cause from appearance alone.
Everyday comfort
Simple steps for mild itchy eyes.
Cool, not rubbing
Place a clean, cool, damp cloth gently over closed eyes. Avoid rubbing, which can worsen irritation. Do not share face cloths.
Notice your triggers
Keep a note of when symptoms occur and any connection with outdoor exposure, pets, dust, cosmetics or new eye drops. Reducing a known trigger may help.
Ask about lubricating drops
Non-medicated lubricating drops may help wash allergens from the eye surface. Ask an optometrist or pharmacist which product is suitable for you.
Review symptoms that persist
Seek advice if symptoms are not improving, keep returning or interfere with your day. Pain, light sensitivity or changed vision needs prompt assessment; do not wait to see whether it settles.
Choosing treatment
The right drops depend on the cause.
Antihistamine or mast-cell-stabilising eye drops may be recommended for allergy. Product choice, age suitability and instructions matter, especially for children. Check with your optometrist or pharmacist rather than choosing a bottle solely because it promises to reduce redness.
If eye drops have been recommended, our guide to using eye drops safely covers clean handling, spacing different products and checking storage instructions.
Antibiotics do not treat allergic conjunctivitis. Steroid eye drops need medical supervision; do not use leftover prescription drops for a new episode without advice.
Arrange a check if your child repeatedly rubs their eyes or symptoms keep returning. Tell us what you have noticed at home and school, and bring any drops already being used. Learn about children’s eye tests.
Contact lenses
Give irritated eyes a break from lenses.
Remove contact lenses if your eyes become irritated, red or sore, and contact your eye-care professional. Pain, reduced vision or light sensitivity needs prompt attention. Do not put the lenses back in until you have advice that it is safe.
Use only the recommended lens-care solution, never tap water or saliva. Tell us about your lenses and cleaning products when you call. See our contact lens care and hygiene guide for daily habits and our fitting and aftercare guide for appointments.
Your visit
Bring the details that help us understand your eyes.
Your symptom pattern
Tell us when symptoms started, whether one or both eyes are affected, and any connection with pollen, pets, dust or new products.
What you have tried
Bring your current glasses, eye-drop bottles and medicine details. Mention any pain, light sensitivity or change in vision when you call.
Visit Reservoir Spectacles at 2C Edwardes Street, Reservoir VIC 3073. We can discuss whether eye care, GP review or specialist referral is appropriate.
Further reading
Australian patient information.
- ASCIA: allergic conjunctivitis
- Healthdirect: itchy eyes
- Healthdirect: conjunctivitis and warning signs
- Better Health Channel: contact lens care
General information, not a diagnosis. Information checked 4 October 2026 against ASCIA, Healthdirect and Better Health Channel guidance.