What should you know about rhinitis and conjunctivitis?

Rhinitis may cause sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, and an itchy feeling. Conjunctivitis can add red, watery, gritty, or itchy eyes. Allergic inflammation often affects both areas because the nose and eyes are exposed to the same air; infection can also cause eye discharge and cold-like symptoms. A red eye alone does not identify the cause, so notice whether symptoms are in one or both eyes, whether discharge is watery or thick, and whether light feels uncomfortable.

Reduce contact with smoke, dust, strong fragrance, and a suspected allergen. Wash your hands before touching your eyes, avoid rubbing them, and use a clean cool compress for irritation. Saline nasal rinsing may help clear mucus when performed with safe, prepared water. Do not share towels, pillows, eye drops, or cosmetics while infection is possible, and discard eye makeup used during an episode. A clinician or pharmacist can help choose suitable allergy treatment or explain when antibiotic treatment is relevant; antibiotics do not treat allergy.

Arrange a GP consultation if symptoms are persistent, recurrent, worsening, or interfering with sleep or vision. Seek urgent assessment for significant eye pain, new blurred vision, marked light sensitivity, injury, chemical exposure, swelling around the eye, or difficulty breathing. Thick discharge with eyelids stuck together also deserves medical advice, especially in a contact-lens wearer.

Could this be allergy, infection, or another eye problem? Which symptoms should make me stop using contact lenses? What treatment is appropriate for my nose and eyes, and how should I use it?