Continuous sneezing is usually your body's way of protecting itself from irritants. It's a reflex triggered when things like dust, pollen, viruses, or other irritants touch the mucus membranes in your nose and throat.
Common Causes of Frequent Sneezing:
Several factors can lead to persistent sneezing. These include:
- Allergies: Reactions to pollen (hay fever), mold, pet dander, or dust mites are common culprits. [Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Cleveland Clinic]
- Viral Infections: The common cold and flu often cause frequent sneezing, along with other symptoms like congestion and sore throat. [Source: Cleveland Clinic]
- Nasal Irritants: Exposure to chemicals, smoke, perfumes, cold air, or spices can irritate the nasal passages, triggering sneezing. [Source: Houston ENT]
- Medications: Inhaling certain medications, such as corticosteroids from nasal sprays, can sometimes induce sneezing. [Source: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia]
- Non-allergic Rhinitis: This condition causes sneezing and a stuffy or runny nose without a clear allergic trigger. [Source: Mayo Clinic]
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While occasional sneezing is usually harmless, persistent or severe sneezing warrants a visit to your doctor, especially if accompanied by:
- Fever
- Congestion
- Sore throat
- Significant impact on your quality of life
[Source: Cleveland Clinic]
Understanding the Sneeze Reflex:
Sneezing is a powerful expulsion of air from the lungs, designed to clear irritants from the nasal passages. Almost any particle can trigger this reflex. [Source: Medical News Today]
