A burning sensation in the eyes and nose is a common and uncomfortable symptom. It indicates that the delicate mucous membranes lining these areas are reacting to various internal or external factors. Understanding the common reasons behind this irritation can help identify potential causes and when to seek professional advice. The eyes and nasal passages are highly sensitive, making them susceptible to environmental triggers, allergic responses, and systemic illnesses.
Environmental Irritants
Environmental factors frequently trigger burning sensations in the eyes and nose. Common airborne irritants, such as smoke from fires or tobacco products, can directly inflame sensitive tissues. Fine particulate matter and gases in air pollution, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, also cause irritation. Household cleaning chemicals, perfumes, and other strong fumes can provoke a stinging feeling in these areas.
Exposure to common dust can also irritate the eyes and nose. Environments with low humidity or dry air can cause discomfort by increasing the evaporation of the tear film covering the eyes and drying out the nasal passages. This direct interaction with irritants leads to a localized inflammatory response, resulting in the characteristic burning sensation.
Allergic Reactions
The body’s immune system can overreact to specific substances, known as allergens. This immune response involves the release of chemicals like histamine, which causes inflammation, itching, redness, and watery discharge in affected areas. Allergic reactions are a hypersensitive response to otherwise harmless environmental factors.
Common airborne allergens include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, which typically cause seasonal allergies. Indoor allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores, can trigger similar symptoms year-round. When these microscopic particles come into contact with the eyes and nasal passages, the immune system’s exaggerated defense mechanism results in burning along with other allergy symptoms.
Infections and Illnesses
Common viral infections like the common cold and influenza often cause inflammation of the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, leading to burning in the nasal passages. These infections frequently present with additional symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, or a sore throat.
Bacterial infections, such as sinusitis, can cause burning in the nose and around the eyes. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, caused by viral or bacterial infections, can lead to burning, gritty feelings, redness, and discharge in the eyes. The body’s response to these pathogens involves an inflammatory process that irritates the delicate tissues.
Other Potential Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Beyond environmental factors, allergies, and infections, other conditions can cause burning eyes and nose. Dry eye syndrome, where the eyes do not produce enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly, can result in a chronic burning or gritty sensation. Prolonged screen use or activities requiring intense visual focus can lead to eye strain, manifesting as tired, sore, or burning eyes. Certain medications may also list burning eyes or nasal irritation as a side effect.
Consult a healthcare professional if burning sensations in the eyes and nose persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Medical attention is warranted for severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, or signs of infection such as fever, pus-like discharge, or a rash. If symptoms significantly interfere with daily activities or do not improve with self-care, a doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.