rat urine allergy

Question
I just purchased a male and female rat. Everytime I come in contact with them ( I cant tell if it is the contact or the smell of their cage) I begin having weird symptoms. I will have a tightening feeling in my head and stiff feeling in the back of my neck. It's not painful, just bothersome and last for awhile. Is this a symptom of an allergy

Answer
Before I even mention allergies, separate your rats immediately!!! There is no reason for an accidental (or worse, an irresponsible, not-so-accidental) litter here. Please separate them and find them each a same sex friend, but know that your female is likely already pregnant.

As for you, allergies would be my best guess. I'm not nearly as familiar with human illnesses so if its bothering you, I'd suggest going to a doctor.