Itching eyes are not unusual on interferon therapy. Interferon may irritate mucus membranes causing itching. Saline eye drops may reduce irritation. If itchy eyes persists, or is accompanied by redness, swelling or discharge, the treating physician should be notified. Some people describe burning or irritated eyes during interferon treatment.
Some people receiving interferon therapy describe blurry vision.
Because interferon has been known to rarely cause changes to the retina, blurry vision should be brought to the attention of the treating physician. Interferon may irritate the mucus membranes within the nose and cause congestion. This usually resolves on its own after the first month without the need for intervention. Sores inside of the nose may occur as a result of irritated mucus membranes. A sore may be coated with petroleum jelly to relieve dryness.