What causes constant sneezing and runny nose in autumn?

Nov 05, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, persistent sneezing and runny nose during autumn may be caused by temperature changes, allergic reactions, dry climate, allergic rhinitis, or colds due to wind and cold. Treatment options include general management and medication. It is important to pay attention to weather changes, dress appropriately, maintain nasal cleanliness and moisture, and avoid prolonged exposure to dry or cold environments.

In general, frequent sneezing and runny nose during autumn may be caused by temperature changes, allergic reactions, wind-cold感冒 (common cold due to wind and cold), seasonal rhinitis, or sinusitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Temperature Changes

During autumn, temperatures gradually drop and air humidity decreases. Alternating cold and warm conditions can easily irritate the nasal mucosa, leading to sneezing and a runny nose. Try to maintain indoor air humidity and adjust clothing appropriately to adapt to temperature fluctuations.

2. Allergic Reactions

Autumn is a season when pollen from many plants disperses into the air, increasing airborne pollen concentration. Combined with active allergens such as dust mites and mold, sensitive individuals may experience immune system reactions after inhalation, resulting in symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. Minimize exposure to allergens, keep indoor areas clean, and consider using air purifiers.

3. Wind-Cold Common Cold

The dropping temperatures in autumn make it easier to catch a chill, leading to a wind-cold type of common cold. This condition is caused by external invasion of wind and cold pathogens impairing lung function, manifesting as sneezing and clear nasal discharge. Other symptoms may include pronounced chills and fever. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may take medications such as Isatis Root Granules, Zheng Chaihu Drink Granules, or Wind-Cold感冒 Granules for treatment.

4. Seasonal Rhinitis

Seasonal rhinitis can be triggered in autumn by airborne allergens such as plant debris and fungal spores. Individuals with allergic constitutions may develop an immune response in the nasal mucosa upon inhaling these allergens, causing nasal congestion, excessive clear nasal discharge, sneezing, and possibly nasal itching. It is recommended that patients follow medical advice and use medications such as Loratadine Tablets, Budesonide Nasal Spray, or Cetirizine Hydrochloride Drops to relieve symptoms.

5. Sinusitis

Sinusitis may result from reduced overall immunity, allergic constitution, or pre-existing nasal conditions. Inflammation of the mucous membranes within the sinuses leads to increased secretions, impairing normal sinus ventilation and drainage, which causes symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and thick, pus-like nasal discharge. Additional symptoms may include fever, headache, and body aches. Under a doctor’s recommendation, medications such as Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium Tablets, Paracetamol Tablets, or Amoxicillin Capsules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, pay attention to weather changes, dress appropriately, maintain nasal hygiene and moisture, and avoid prolonged exposure to dry or cold environments.