Why do I experience itchy nose, sneezing, and runny nose?

May 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My nose has been extremely itchy lately, and I keep sneezing and producing a lot of clear nasal discharge. I go through several boxes of tissues a day. What could be causing this?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lu Cheng

Itchy nose, sneezing, and runny nose can be caused by various factors, such as the common cold, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis.

The common cold is a viral upper respiratory tract infection caused by various viruses, including coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and rhinoviruses. After a viral infection affects the nasal cavity, it causes an inflammatory reaction of the nasal mucosa, presenting symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Unlike allergic rhinitis, symptoms of the common cold are usually accompanied by systemic symptoms such as sore throat, fever, muscle pain, and fatigue.

If the patient has an allergic constitution, inhaling allergens like pollen or animal dander may trigger allergic rhinitis. In such cases, antiallergic medications, such as levocabastine hydrochloride nasal spray or ebastine tablets, may be effective. Bacterial infection can lead to sinusitis, with symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and nasal itching. Treatment usually requires antibiotics and other medications to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

In addition, changes in climate, cold temperatures, or dry environments can irritate the nasal mucosa, causing nasal itching and sneezing. Maintaining a suitable environment and using humidifiers may help relieve these symptoms.