Persistent sneezing is a common symptom that occurs during the rains, but it is always brushed off as merely the body reacting to changing climate. However, when the problem persists for several days or even weeks, then the issue at hand should definitely not be overlooked. There is a sudden upsurge in humidity levels, providing an environment for a number of allergens to thrive inside homes. Walls become damp, poorly ventilated rooms become breeding grounds for moulds, and dust mites multiply rapidly. Thus, due to all of these factors, people suffer from persistent sneezing, stuffiness, and itching of the nose and throat, which they generally mistake as a prolonged bout of the common cold.
The problem may be inside the house
Indoor dampness is one of the most significant causes of sneezing during monsoons. Dampness inside walls, ceilings, bathrooms, wardrobes, and kitchens creates an environment for mould to grow. Even if there is no visible mould growth, spores may be dispersed in the air. Inhaling such spores leads to irritation in the nasal cavity, which results in sneezing and congestion.
The presence of dust mites is yet another reason why people develop allergies to monsoon. Dust mites survive and breed well in humid and warm conditions and reside in mattresses, cushions, carpets, and curtains. Their numbers increase during monsoon, thereby causing allergic reactions among sensitive people.
Sneezing often tends to be more severe indoors, especially after waking up, cleaning rarely used spaces, or spending extended periods in poorly ventilated rooms.
Why the symptoms can feel more intense
Monsoon allergy does not necessarily mean sneezing alone. There could be a blocked nose, postnasal drip, sore throat, watering eyes, face pressure, headaches, and disturbed sleep. In extreme cases, long-lasting inflammation in the nose can impact one’s ability to focus and work.
The tricky part about such symptoms is that they can easily be confused with the flu. While flu has similar symptoms, it lasts only for a week and does not happen every year in the same month. It usually causes high fever and body pain, while allergy does not.
When it is time to pay attention
Infrequent sneezes usually don’t pose any problems. But symptoms which persist for many weeks, disturb sleep or recur during every monsoon season shouldn’t be neglected.
Frequent mouth breathing, nasal congestion, diminished ability to smell and sinus pain may suggest that the allergy isn’t under sufficient control. Children with nasal allergies can have difficulties in sleeping and concentrating on their work.
Reducing exposure is often the first step
Dealing with monsoon allergies begins by creating an appropriate environment. Moist areas need to be dried up as soon as possible; any leakages require prompt fixing, and rooms need to be aired out where possible. Bedding should be washed regularly, curtains cleaned periodically, and air-conditioner filters maintained properly. Avoiding the accumulation of moisture indoors can significantly reduce exposure to mould and dust mites.
Continuous sneezing in the rainy season is often the body’s way of trying to eliminate all the allergens which thrive in such an environment. Identifying these causes at the very beginning is a step towards avoiding the same problem each year during the monsoon.
The author is an ENT specialist at Apollo Spectra Bengaluru.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.
