Why does sniffing cause coughing?

Sniffing can cause coughing, which may be due to postnasal drip, sensitive respiratory mucosa, allergic rhinitis, acute upper respiratory tract infection, or sinusitis. Symptoms can be improved through nasal irrigation, avoiding irritants, and medication. If coughing is frequent or accompanied by fever or worsening runny nose, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Postnasal Drip: When sniffing, nasal secretions flow backward into the throat, irritating the pharyngeal mucosa and triggering coughing, often accompanied by a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. It is recommended to clean the nasal cavity with saline solution to reduce mucus buildup, and to sniff gently to avoid excessive irritation.

2. Sensitive Respiratory Mucosa: The respiratory mucosa is in a hypersensitive state, and the airflow generated during sniffing can stimulate the throat and airways, triggering a cough reflex—especially noticeable in cold air or dusty environments. Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and other irritants; maintain indoor humidity, and wear a mask outdoors to reduce airflow irritation.

3. Allergic Rhinitis: Exposure to allergens such as pollen or house dust mites triggers rhinitis, increasing nasal secretions. Sniffing causes these secretions to drain into the throat, stimulating coughing and accompanied by sneezing and nasal itching. Patients may use medications such as loratadine syrup, mometasone furoate nasal spray, or montelukast sodium chewable tablets under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

4. Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: Viral or bacterial infections cause inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, leading to congestion and swelling of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. Sniffing irritates inflamed areas, resulting in coughing, sore throat, and runny nose. Under medical supervision, medications such as pediatric paracetamol-phenylpropanolamine granules, Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid, or dextromethorphan syrup may be used to alleviate discomfort.

5. Sinusitis: Inflammation caused by infection in the sinuses leads to purulent secretions draining into the throat. Sniffing further irritates the throat, causing coughing along with nasal congestion and headache. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as cefaclor suspension, Biyuan Tongqiao granules, or oxymetazoline hydrochloride nasal drops to improve symptoms.

In daily life, keep indoor air fresh and humidified, drink plenty of water to moisturize the throat mucosa. Maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods. Follow a regular sleep schedule to strengthen immunity, practice proper nasal hygiene to reduce secretion-related irritation, and support recovery of the respiratory system.