Why we sneeze
Sneezing is a reflex triggered when nerves in the lining of the nose detect irritation. A strong burst of air clears the irritant. Inflammation of the nasal lining, as in allergies or infections, makes these nerves more sensitive, so sneezing becomes frequent.
Allergies (allergic rhinitis)
- Pollen: seasonal sneezing in spring and summer (hay fever).
- House dust mites: sneezing in the morning or when making beds.
- Pets: sneezing around cats, dogs or other animals.
- Mould: damp homes, autumn leaves.
See allergy season and winter allergies.
Colds and viral infections
Sneezing is common in the first days of a cold, together with a sore throat, runny nose and congestion. Symptoms settle within 7 to 10 days.
See allergies vs cold.
Non-allergic rhinitis
Some people have sneezing and a runny nose without allergy. Triggers include temperature changes, strong smells, smoke, pollution, alcohol, spicy foods and hormonal changes in pregnancy.
Irritants
- Cigarette smoke.
- Perfume and strong cleaning products.
- Dust and pepper.
- Cold air.
- Air pollution.
Unusual sneezing triggers
- Bright light: the photic sneeze reflex affects a minority of people.
- Large meals: some people sneeze after eating a lot.
- Plucking eyebrows: irritation of facial nerves.
- Exercise: changes in airflow and temperature.
Medicines
Some blood pressure medicines, anti-inflammatories and hormonal treatments can cause nasal symptoms. Using decongestant sprays for more than a few days can cause rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa).
Finding your trigger
- Note when sneezing happens: time of day, season and place.
- Note what you were doing or exposed to.
- See whether symptoms improve away from home or work.
- Allergy skin prick or blood tests can confirm allergies.
How to stop sneezing
- Avoid known triggers where possible.
- Rinse the nose with saline.
- Take a non-drowsy antihistamine for allergies.
- Use a steroid nasal spray daily during allergy seasons.
- Keep windows closed on high pollen days and shower after being outside.
- Wash bedding hot weekly for dust mites.
Should you hold in a sneeze?
Holding your nose and mouth closed while sneezing can, rarely, injure the ears or throat. It is better to sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.
Immunotherapy
For severe allergies that do not respond to medicines, immunotherapy (desensitisation) with tablets or injections, under specialist supervision, can reduce sensitivity over years.
Sneezing in children
Babies sneeze often to clear their small noses, which is normal. In older children, persistent sneezing with a runny nose and itchy eyes suggests allergies, which can affect sleep and concentration at school.
Reducing allergens at home
- Use allergen-proof covers for mattresses and pillows.
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter and damp-dust surfaces.
- Keep pets out of the bedroom.
- Reduce humidity and fix damp to prevent mould.
- Dry laundry indoors on high pollen days.
Sneezing in pregnancy
Hormonal changes in pregnancy can cause a stuffy, runny nose and sneezing (pregnancy rhinitis), which settles after birth. Saline sprays are safe; ask a pharmacist or doctor before using medicines.
Sneezing at work
Occupational rhinitis can develop in people exposed to flour, wood dust, laboratory animals, latex or chemicals. Symptoms improve at weekends and on holiday. Early recognition and reducing exposure matter, as it can progress to occupational asthma.
When to see a doctor
- Symptoms affect sleep, work or school.
- No improvement with over-the-counter treatments.
- Blood from the nose or one-sided blockage.
- Facial pain, swelling or loss of smell.
- Wheezing or breathlessness.
Key points to remember
- Frequent sneezing is usually allergic rhinitis or a cold.
- Non-allergic rhinitis and irritants are other common causes.
- Note when and where you sneeze to find triggers.
- Saline, antihistamines and steroid sprays help most people.
Questions about constant sneezing
These answers are general information and do not replace an examination or individual medical advice.
Why do I keep sneezing every day?
Often allergies to dust mites, pets or pollen, or non-allergic rhinitis.
Why do I sneeze in the morning?
Dust mite allergy and temperature changes are common causes.
Is constant sneezing a sign of COVID?
It can occur, but it is more typical of colds and allergies.
How do I stop sneezing quickly?
Avoid the trigger, rinse the nose and take an antihistamine.
Why do I sneeze when I look at the sun?
The photic sneeze reflex, which is harmless.
Can stress cause sneezing?
Stress can worsen allergy symptoms.
Can sneezing be a sign of something serious?
Rarely; one-sided symptoms or bleeding should be checked.
Is it bad to hold in a sneeze?
It can rarely cause injury; sneeze into a tissue instead.
Can allergy tests help?
Yes, they can identify specific triggers.
Can dry air make me sneeze?
Yes, dry air can irritate the nose; a humidifier and saline help.
Can spicy food make me sneeze?
Yes, it can trigger a runny nose and sneezing.
Why do I sneeze more at night?
Dust mites in bedding and lying down can worsen symptoms.
Sources
This guide is for general information and does not replace medical advice. How a problem is diagnosed and treated depends on your examination and medical history. If you think you have an emergency, contact your local emergency services.