My 85-year-old mother frequently complains of eye itch. What could be the cause? Is there a remedy?

R.W.

Chronic eye itching is most often associated with ocular (eye) allergies. Other symptoms of ocular allergies include eye redness, eye watering and the sensation that there is a foreign body in the eye.

People with ocular allergies may also have general allergies, and, besides itchy eyes, often have symptoms such as a runny nose, scratchy throat and sinus congestion. The cause of ocular allergies is usually difficult to pinpoint. However, if the agent triggering the allergic reaction can be identified, removing it will usually relieve the symptoms.

If an ophthalmologist makes a diagnosis of ocular allergies, your mother may be prescribed a variety of anti-inflammatory medications, usually delivered in eyedrop form. These eyedrops are generally very safe and effective at eliminating the symptoms of ocular allergies.