Cigarettes contain a variety of toxic chemicals and irritants that many sensitive or allergic individuals react to, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Children and spouses of smokers, for example, tend to have increased occurrences of respiratory infections than those of non-smokers. Other environmental smoke triggers such as fireplaces, bonfires or matches can also induce a reaction. If smoke allergy symptoms appear, sufferers should vacate smoking areas and seek medical attention if the reaction is severe.
Burning or Watery Eyes
Burning and water eyes occur due to the body's natural reaction to purge the environmental irritant such as smoke, MedlinePlus says. Secondhand cigarette smoke, for example, can annoy sensitive eyes causing a burning or itching sensation as well as an excess of tears. Avoiding areas that may have smoke is prudent to circumvent any irritation. Continual contact with the eyes such as persistent rubbing can cause secondary infection indicated by discharge. Allergy sufferers should immediately contact a health care professional if any thick discharge, pain or decreased vision occurs.
Nasal Congestion, Coughing and Shortness of Breath
During an allergic reaction, bodily tissues can become inflamed and cause constriction of blood vessels in the nasal cavity as well as the lungs, according to MedlinePlus. For example, asthmatics who usually have an allergy to smoke or that are susceptible to the irritant will exhibit an extreme reaction such as wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing due to sudden inflammation. For those without respiratory complications like asthma, however, coughing will appear as the body's natural defense in warding off smoke inhalation.
Hoarseness
Hoarseness of the throat can appear due to smoke irritation, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. It develops due to the inflammation of the surrounding tissue is causes difficulty speaking and a change in the pitch or quality of the voice, MedlinePlus says. Upon the introduction of smoke, the voice can sound weak, breathy, scratchy or husky.
