5 Ways to Tell Itchy Eyes Are Allergies, Not a Cold

Itchy eyes are almost always allergies Colds rarely make eyes itch. If your eyes are itchy, it is likely allergies.

Allergies last weeks; colds peak and fade Allergies can last for weeks and return every spring. A cold peaks at day 3–4 and resolves in 7–10 days.

Colds bring fever and colored mucus; allergies bring clear discharge Colds often cause sore throat, fever, and colored mucus. Allergies cause clear, watery discharge and sneezing fits triggered by going outside.

Use a non-drowsy antihistamine plus a nasal steroid Start with cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) and add fluticasone (Flonase). Use both for a week.

Add antihistamine eye drops if symptoms persist If you still feel miserable, add ketotifen (Alaway) eye drops. This combination stops 90% of spring allergy symptoms. Do not waste money on multi-symptom cold medicines.