Why do I sneeze and have a runny nose when exposed to cold?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, sneezing and a runny nose triggered by cold exposure may be caused by factors such as cold air irritation, dry nasal passages, wind-cold感冒 (common cold), allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis. Patients can improve their symptoms by increasing indoor temperature, wearing masks, and using medications as directed by a physician. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo treatment as advised by a doctor.
Generally, sneezing and runny nose triggered by cold exposure may be caused by factors such as cold air irritation, nasal dryness, wind-cold common cold, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis. Patients can improve these symptoms by increasing indoor temperature, wearing masks, and using medications as directed by a physician. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo treatment accordingly. Detailed information is as follows:
1. Cold air irritation: When the body is exposed to cold air, nasal mucosa may be irritated, leading to symptoms of sneezing and runny nose. This is a natural response of the body to cold environments, aiming to expel foreign substances and irritants from the nasal cavity through sneezing and mucus discharge. Patients should keep warm, dress appropriately in cold environments, and avoid getting chilled.
2. Nasal dryness: Cold weather may cause nasal dryness, making the mucosa more susceptible to irritation and resulting in a runny nose. This condition can usually be relieved by increasing indoor humidity and wearing masks.
3. Wind-cold common cold: Wind-cold common cold is a type of cold caused by external exposure to cold pathogens. Patients may experience symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose upon cold exposure, accompanied by chills, fever, and other discomforts. Patients generally need to take medications as directed by a physician, such as Ganmao Qingre Granules (Cold and Flu Relief Granules), Amclemine Soft Capsules, or Loratadine Tablets. These medications have effects of relieving exterior symptoms and clearing heat, reducing fever and pain, and anti-inflammatory actions.
4. Allergic rhinitis: Allergic rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory reaction of the nasal mucosa caused by exposure to allergens. If a patient is allergic to cold air, symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose upon cold exposure may occur, accompanied by nasal congestion and itching. Patients with allergic rhinitis generally require medication under medical guidance, such as Cetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets, Loratadine Tablets, or Desloratadine Tablets, which have antiallergic effects.
5. Sinusitis: Sinusitis is a nasal sinus infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi and is a common condition in otolaryngology. Patients with sinusitis may experience worsening inflammation symptoms due to cold air irritation, leading to nasal itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Patients should use antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Roxithromycin Dispersible Tablets, or Cefaclor Capsules under a doctor's guidance for anti-infective treatment.
In daily life, maintaining indoor humidity is important. Using humidifiers or placing water basins indoors to increase humidity can help alleviate nasal dryness and runny nose symptoms. Regular exercise can also enhance immunity and improve the body's ability to adapt to cold environments.
