Itchy eyes are often super uncomfortable and quite painful. It can put a huge dent in your productivity and leave you searching for answers. Thankfully, this condition is not usually a symptom of a more serious issue, as the majority of root causes of itchy eyes include the likes of dry eyes, allergic rhinitis, eye infection, improper contact lens fit or material, or getting something stuck in your eye.

Although it is typically recommended to visit a doctor if your itchy eyes start to become painful or begin to negatively impact your day-to-day, in most cases the causes of itchy eyes can be treated at home.

The following home remedies are a great place to being to get your itchy condition under control.

1. Eye drops

Over-the-counter eye drops are maybe the most common and helpful way to relieve itchy eyes. It is usually recommended to get preservative-free eye drops to avoid additional agitation.

2. Warm and cold compresses

If your eyes feel hot or feel larger than normal, take a fresh cloth, soak it in ice cold water and apply to your closed eyes, repeating this as many times as needed for a soothing, relieving effect. For itching that’s due to allergies, try utilizing the same method except for using hot water instead of cold.

3. Stay hydrated

Itchy eyes are sometimes caused by dehydration. Drink a lot of water during the course of the day to help keep eyes hydrated and reduce dryness.

4. The 20-20-20 rule

Spending too much time on the computer can create eye strain, which can lead to a host of conditions, including itchy eyes. Following the 20-20-20 rule can help to prevent eye strain. While doing work on your computer, stop every 20 minutes and take a hard look at a something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to relax your eyes.

5. Fish oil or flaxseed

Supplements including fish oil and flaxseed oil can help to stop itchy eyes, especially in individuals with ocular rosacea, a condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids.