What’s making you sneeze at home?

- Swathy R Iyer

Even when you are infection-free and have no outdoor allergen hurting you, these seven common things at home can lead to sneezing bouts.

Molds are considered the most common indoor allergen. The black or green fungus-like growth in moist areas of your home can cause sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion and watery eyes.

Mold

Burning incense sticks and mosquito-repellent coils indoors can lead to the release of polluting particulate matter. They cause sneezing and coughing and can have adverse health effects in the long run.

Mosquito coils and incense sticks

The roaches trigger allergic reactions through the saliva, droppings or body parts. Pigeons nestling near the windows can leave droppings and feathers inside the house, causing sneezes and dry cough.

Cockroaches and pigeon droppings

Pet dander, or the skin cells your pets shed, is another common indoor allergen. Symptoms can range from eye irritation to sneezing or body itching.

Pet dander

Soft toys and bedding are two indoor items prone to attracting dust mites. These microscopic organisms can cause sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes.

Soft toys, bedding and dust mites

Scented items like room fresheners, perfumes and fragrances, and aromatic candles can cause allergies in a few people. Such products could lead to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and breathing difficulties.

Scented products

If you have old, dusty books stored in your home library, watch out for symptoms of allergies since these are known for collecting dust mites.

Old books

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