One of your body's earliest defences against a foreign material in your nose is a sneeze. Sneezing (छींक आना in Hindi) is a natural way for your body to clear your airways. Your nose may get irritated or tickled when foreign particles such as dirt, pollen, smoke, or dust enter your nostrils. When this happens, your body sneezes to clear up your nose.

It's very natural to sneeze more than once. It is also natural that it may take a little longer to get rid of the foreign substance from your nose and hence, you may end up sneezing multiple times. According to research, about 95% of people sneeze four times every day. 

While most people only sneeze a few times per day, there are a number of other things that could cause you to sneeze multiple times or frequently.

Know what could be causing those continuous “Achoo! Achoo!” and how to stop them.

Why Do You Sneeze?

Sneezing happens for a reason. If you are continuously sneezing all the time, one of the following may be causing it:

  • Environmental changes: Pollution and a dusty environment can irritate your nose and cause sneezing.

  • Seasonal allergies: Sneezing along with coughing and runny nose are commonly seen during spring, summer and fall seasons.

  • Pet allergies: Sneezing along with a runny nose is seen when you have an allergy from certain animals like cats, dogs or any other animal with fur.

  • Spices: Getting exposed to certain spices (black pepper, cumin, coriander, and crushed red pepper) can trigger sneezing.

  • Infections: Certain viruses can infect your body, and affect the inner lining of your nose. This can irritate your nose and cause frequent sneezing.

  • Sunlight: You might sneeze multiple times when you see a bright light. This is known as autosomal dominant compelling helio-ophthalmic outburst (ACHOO syndrome).

What Symptoms Are Usually Present Along With Sneezing?

Based on the underlying causes or conditions of sneezing, it can result in other symptoms like:

  • Congested or runny nose

  • Coughing

  • Heaviness in your head

  • Itching in nose, throat or eyes

  • Sore throat

  • Red and/or watery eyes

Are There Any Medicines to Stop Sneezing?

If your sneezing is caused by allergies or disease, your doctor can treat the underlying problem to stop your sneezing. Your doctor can do a patch test (a process done on your skin to see which substance is causing allergy) to get a detailed idea of your allergies. 

Based on that you might get some allergy shots to prepare your body for future exposure. Your doctor can also prescribe some medicines to help you with your symptoms.

What Are Some Home Remedies to Stop Sneezing?

Try these home remedies to stop continuous sneezing at home.

1. Increase citrus fruits in your diet. Fruits like lemons, oranges, and Indian gooseberry (amla) are rich in antioxidants (elements that prevent cell damage), which strengthen your immune system to fight against infections and allergies.

2. Try black cardamom (काली इलाइची in Hindi). The oil of black cardamom is highly useful because it aids in the restoration of mucus flow in your respiratory tract. This makes the airways smooth and reduces the episodes of sneezing.

3. Use ginger. Ginger has antiseptic properties and acts as a decongestant (used to get relief from a blocked or stuffy nose), which aids in the treatment of colds.

4. Drink basil (tulsi) tea. The leaves of tulsi have antibacterial properties that help in fighting off infections that cause sneezing.

5. Moisturise your nose. Moisturising your nose lining with desi ghee, badam rogan, or coconut oil will soothe your sensitive and irritable nose that makes you sneeze. 

6. Eat healthily. Having a balanced and healthy diet will provide all the essential nutrients which are important to keep your immune system strong.

7. Avoid dust and smoke. Try not to inhale smoke or dust that might irritate your nose. Step away if someone is smoking around you.

While sneezing, practise respiratory hygiene by covering your nose and mouth with a tissue. This will aid in the prevention of the spread of germs or an infection (if any). 

If you think your sneezing habits are not normal, talk to your doctor about it.


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.