Absolutely everyone seems to be sneezing left, right and centre at the moment.
Whether it's at your office, at the supermarket or on a night out - it's clear you can't get through the day without hearing a chorus of 'achoos' around you.
And, what's even more peculiar, is that many of these sneezers aren't even unwell.
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So, to help clear things up, a doctor has explained the weird reason why we're all sneezing so much at the moment - despite not being sick at all.
Why are people sneezing a lot even though they're not actually unwell with a cold?
Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, explains that, during the colder months, the increased use of heating and emissions from vehicles can become trapped in the atmosphere.
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This, in turn, increases air pollution and reducing its quality which could increase sneezing.
Dr Grant also notes: "Indoors, throughout winter, dust and mould can also exacerbate sneezing symptoms, even if an individual is perfectly healthy."
The expert also notes that, alternatively, sudden temperature changes can also increase the likelihood of sneezing, returning indoors from the cold or vice versa could instigate this.
Is the pollen count higher than normal at the moment?
"Another big factor that can cause sneezing is seasonal allergies - such as pollen," Dr Grant points out.
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Dr Grant explained that hay fever season typically begins around March, when tree pollen levels start to rise.
But according to the UKHSA, the UK is experiencing 'longer and more intense pollen seasons', with symptoms impacting people as early as February.
"This makes sense," the doctor continues, "with so many people sneezing around the UK, despite not feeling ill.
"While several factors could impact this, climate change is often cited as a major influence."
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When should people be worried?
Dr Grant advises: "If an individual is sneezing due to environmental factors - such as the weather or pollen count - it’s generally not something to be worried about and it very rarely requires a consultation with a GP.
"Instead, antihistamines can prove effective for targeting hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. In particular, I recommend Chlorphenamine Tablets.
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“However, if nasal discharge changes colour or becomes thick, it could signal an infection. If anyone is worried about their sneezing symptoms, it’s best to have an open and honest conversation with a licensed health professional."
Topics: Health, Life, Advice, Environment, Weather
Rhiannon Ingle