A sneezing allergy is a symptom of allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever. It's an allergic reaction in your nose triggered by inhaling allergens like pollen, pet dander, mold, or dust. This reaction causes your immune system to release inflammatory cells, leading to sneezing, among other symptoms.
Understanding Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is the underlying condition responsible for the sneezing. It's an allergic reaction within the nasal passages. The body mistakenly identifies harmless substances (allergens) as threats. This triggers an immune response causing inflammation and various symptoms.
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Key Symptoms: Besides sneezing, common symptoms include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itching in the nose, eyes, or roof of the mouth
- Congestion
- Sore throat (in some cases)
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Common Allergens:
- Pollen (hay fever)
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Dust mites
Differentiating Sneezing from Other Causes
While sneezing is a prominent symptom of allergies, it can also stem from other sources:
- Viral infections: The common cold and flu can cause sneezing.
- Irritants: Breathing in certain medications or other irritants can also trigger sneezing.
- Non-allergic rhinitis: This condition causes similar symptoms (including sneezing) but lacks the immune system component of allergic rhinitis.
It's important to note that the severity of sneezing and other allergy symptoms varies from person to person. Some individuals experience mild symptoms, while others have more severe reactions.
This information is based on various sources, including the Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8622-allergic-rhinitis-hay-fever), the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (https://acaai.org/allergies/symptoms/runny-nose-stuffy-nose-sneezing/), and the NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/).
