Experiencing frequent morning sneezing? It’s likely due to exposure to common allergens while sleeping. Pollen levels are often highest in the mornings, triggering stronger symptoms for pollen allergy sufferers, leading to repeated sneezing. Other factors can also contribute to morning sneezing. Sneezing is a natural immune response aimed at clearing mucus from the sinuses, typically triggered by allergies or irritants like dust and pollen in the air. Read on to learn about the causes and treatment options for morning sneezing.
Causes of Morning Sneezing
Don’t fret too much, as morning sneezing is quite common and affects many individuals. Several factors could be triggering these sneezing episodes. Here are four common causes of morning sneezing
1. Sinus
Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, can indeed trigger a sneezing fit, particularly upon waking up when movement may disturb the nasal lining, prompting mucus flow. Sinus infections are prevalent, and the symptom of morning sneezing is more commonly associated with chronic sinusitis.
2. Allergy
Allergies can be a year-round issue, especially prevalent during spring, summer, and fall. For some individuals, symptoms may only manifest in the morning, leaving them symptom-free for the rest of the day. Known medically as allergic rhinitis, it involves hypersensitivity to various allergens like house dust mites, animal dander, and fungal spores. Morning sneezing may even result from an allergic reaction to one’s pillow or bedding materials.
3. Vasomotor rhinitis
Vasomotor Rhinitis refers to inflammation in the nasal membranes, frequently leading to sneezing episodes triggered by temperature changes or shifts in the body’s immune activity during sleep. Individuals with this condition may experience a sudden onset of sneezing upon exposure to colder or warmer air in the morning.
4. Sun sneezing
The medical term for this phenomenon is the photic sneeze reflex. It’s a condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to sneeze in response to specific stimuli, such as exposure to bright lights or sunlight. The sensation of brightness is interpreted by the body as nasal irritation, triggering the sneeze reflex.
Morning sneezing treatment
If morning sneezing is affecting your sleep quality or if you’re unable to manage it on your own, it’s advisable to consult a doctor, especially if symptoms are severe. Here are some treatment options you can consider:
1. Maintain Clean Surroundings
Regularly clean your living space to eliminate dust, animal dander, and molds. Consider staying indoors when pollen counts are high. Ensure thorough cleaning of bedding and bathe pets regularly. Additionally, dust hard surfaces and vacuum carpets, especially in the bedroom.
2. Pinch your nose
Nose pinching as a method to halt sneezing has been a traditional home remedy. However, doctors caution against this practice. Pinching your nose and clamping your mouth shut to suppress a forceful sneeze isn’t advisable.
3. Identify the cause
Identifying the cause of morning sneezing can facilitate its treatment. Recognize your triggers and take measures to control them. Seeking treatment for sinus issues from a doctor is crucial. Proper medication is essential for managing sinusitis, as it can alleviate various disruptive symptoms, including morning sneezing.