What Causes Puffy Red Eyes?

Posted on Mon, 6 Apr 2015

Question: hello, my eyes are puffy underneath and red. taking antihistamines for itch but underneath eyes are not responsive to anything. can you give any suggestions

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Allergic conjunctivitis.

Detailed Answer:
I am sorry to hear that you are having problems with allergies. You are experiencing red puffy eyes with itching and the antihistamine is not working. To help reduce the itching and redness I would recommend that you try a topical eye drops for allergies. There are several types of eye drops including an antihistamine eye drops, steroid eye drops, and mast cell stabilizer eye drops. You would have to see your physician to get any of these prescribed for you.

In the mean time you can also start using cold compresses on your eyes. This is just taking a cold wet wash cloth over your eyes to help sooth the itching and reduce the redness.

In summary
1. you have allergic conjunctivitis
2. Treat with cold compresses
3. Get prescription eye drops in the form of antihistamine, steroids or mast cell stabilizers

I hope this answers your question. Please contact HCM again with your health care concerns and questions

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar