Itchy eyes and itchy throat: what should you know?

Allergens breathed in through the nose can irritate the eyes and throat together. [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) may bring sneezing, nasal itching, congestion and watery eyes. Dust exposure, including [House Dust Mite Allergy](/conditions/house-dust-mite-allergy/), can cause a similar pattern. A scratchy throat with cough, tiredness or fever may fit a [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/), while symptoms that begin soon after a particular food can raise concern about [Food Allergy](/conditions/food-allergy/). Timing, associated symptoms and examination help separate these possibilities.

Move away from smoke, dust, fragrances or any suspected food trigger, and rinse your face and mouth with water. Sip fluids, avoid rubbing your eyes, and use a cool compress for eye comfort. Keep a note of where you were, what you ate, and how quickly symptoms began. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether [Allergy Medication](/treatments/medical-management/allergy-medication/) is suitable. Do not deliberately re-expose yourself to a food that caused symptoms.

Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, faintness, widespread hives, or rapidly worsening symptoms after eating or taking a medicine. Seek prompt medical advice for persistent throat pain, fever, difficulty swallowing, eye pain, light sensitivity or vision changes. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or breathing is difficult.

Could this be inhaled allergy, a cold, or a food reaction? Which symptoms should make me seek emergency help, and should I have an allergy assessment or an action plan?