What should you know about sneezing and watery eyes?

Allergic rhinitis may cause repeated sneezing, an itchy nose, clear discharge and watery or itchy eyes. Dust mites, pets, pollen and mould can be triggers. A common cold can also cause sneezing and watery eyes, usually alongside a blocked or runny nose, sore throat, cough or feeling unwell. Smoke, perfume, cleaning products and dry air can irritate the nose without causing an allergy.

The timing and setting are useful clues. Symptoms that return around a bedroom, a pet or a particular season suggest an exposure pattern, while symptoms that develop with a general illness may fit a cold.

Reduce exposure to suspected triggers, ventilate rooms and avoid smoke or strong scents. Wash the face after outdoor exposure and consider a saline nasal rinse using safe, prepared water. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antihistamine, nasal spray or other allergy medication is suitable, especially if you have other conditions, take medicines or are pregnant.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms keep returning, disturb sleep, interfere with daily activities or do not improve with sensible trigger avoidance. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, severe eye pain, a sudden change in vision or an eye injury.

Ask which triggers are most likely, whether your symptoms fit allergic rhinitis or a cold, how to use a nasal spray safely, and whether your eyes need separate treatment.