What should you know about an itchy soft palate and sneezing?

The soft palate is the flexible area toward the back of the roof of the mouth. Allergic rhinitis can make it itch when the nose and throat react to pollen, dust mites or animal dander. House dust mite allergy and pet allergy may cause symptoms indoors or after exposure, often with a runny or blocked nose and itchy eyes. A common cold may cause sneezing with throat irritation, congestion and feeling unwell.

Note whether symptoms appear in a particular room, season or around an animal, and whether fever, cough or body aches occur. A food reaction can also itch the mouth, especially soon after eating, and may progress quickly.

Move away from the suspected trigger, rinse your mouth with water, and use saline nasal rinsing if it is suitable for you. Wash hands after contact with pets, reduce bedroom dust, and keep windows closed when outdoor allergens are high. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether allergy medication is appropriate and how to use it safely with your other medicines. Rest and drink fluids if a cold seems more likely.

Call emergency services for swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, difficulty breathing, faintness or trouble swallowing after food, medicine or an insect sting. Seek medical advice if symptoms repeatedly disrupt sleep, occur without a clear trigger, or do not improve. A clinician can check for allergy, infection or another cause of mouth and nose irritation.

Does the timing suggest allergic rhinitis or a cold? Could dust mites or pets be contributing? Which allergy medication fits my age, pregnancy status and other medicines? Should I be assessed for a food allergy?