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Things That Trigger the Sniffles

The medical term for a runny or stuffy nose is "rhinitis," but it's commonly called simply "the sniffles." There are a variety of things that can cause the sniffles, from viral infections to allergic and nonallergic reactions to airborne irritants.

  1. Outdoor Allergic Irritants

    • Sniffles are a symptom of outdoor allergies, which are also known as hay fever. Hay fever is primary caused by different types of pollen such as tree pollen, grass pollen and weed pollen (ragweed), as well as outdoor mold and fungi spores.

    Indoor Allergic Irritants

    • Sniffles inside the home can be caused by dander from furry pets and birds, dust mites, cockroach droppings and spores from mold or mildew growing in humid or damp places like basements and attics.

    Nonallergic Irritants

    • Sniffles can also be triggered by nonallergic indoor and outdoor irritants such as dust, smog, second-hand smoke and strong perfumes.

    Occupational Irritants

    • People who are exposed to workplace irritants such as chemical fumes, metal salts, latex and wood dust may experience sniffles and other symptoms of rhinitis.

    Viral Infection

    • Upper respiratory tract infections, such as a cold or flu, typically cause nasal discharge and "sniffles" for about seven to 10 days.

    Weather Changes

    • Rapid changes in air temperature or humidity levels can affect the membrane of the nose and result in stuffiness.

    Food and Alcohol

    • Certain kinds of hot and spicy food can cause sniffles up to an hour after they are consumed. Alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine may also cause nasal congestion.

    Medications

    • Some medications can cause both allergic and nonallergic rhinitus. These include beta blockers, anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advid, Motrin), sedatives, antidepressants, oral contraceptives and erectile-dysfunction drugs. Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can also cause sniffles.

    Hormones

    • Hormonal changes brought on by things like menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, puberty, use of oral contraceptives or conditions such as hypothyroidism can cause rhinitis.

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