22 Causes, Symptoms, And Treatments Of Eye Allergies

15. Cold Compresses: Simple Symptom Soothers

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. For immediate relief from itchy, swollen, or burning eyes, a cold compress is an ingenious, drug-free remedy. The cool temperature constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and redness, and numbs nerve endings, alleviating itching. Simply soak a clean cloth in cold water (or use a gel eye mask chilled in the fridge), wring it out, and apply it to closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. This provides soothing comfort and can reduce the urge to rub your eyes, preventing further irritation.

16. Eye Washes/Saline Rinses: Flushing Away the Irritants

An often-overlooked yet incredibly helpful strategy is physically flushing allergens from your eyes. Using a sterile saline eye wash or artificial tears helps rinse away pollen, dust, or dander particles that have landed on the eye's surface. This mechanical removal reduces direct contact between the allergen and your mast cells, lessening the immune response. It’s an ingenious, non-medicated first line of defense, especially after outdoor exposure, providing immediate relief and preventing deeper irritation without chemical intervention.