Unexpected items in your home that can trigger sneezing fits - full list of worst culprits

Allergy sufferers expect to struggle during the spring and summer months but an expert has revealed that there are common items lurking in your home that can also lead to a sneezing fit.

TV Dr Sara Kayat shares that air fresheners, flowering houseplants and even kids' teddies are most likely to set off a sneezing fit. Candles are a common cause of respiratory allergies, as the strong perfume can be irritating and could trigger a sneeze.

Dust mites thrive in warm, dusty spots like soft toys, pillows and mattresses, while pet hair often accumulates in carpets, rugs and bedding, so even the most unexpected items can be problematic.

She explained that stuffed toys are notorious for harbouring dust mites, which can set us off as it's estimated 12 million Brits suffer from allergies caused by these critters. While hayfever sufferers will also suffer from symptoms, with tree pollen often the cause from late March to mid-May, grass from mid-May until July, and weed pollen from the end of June to September depending on where you live in the UK.

Dr Sara Kayat said: "Home is supposed to be a comforting space, but for people with allergies the home can also be a cause of allergic rhinitis, the medical term for inflammation of the nasal passage triggered by something you're allergic to. Symptoms like sneezing, nasal itchiness, and congestion can disrupt daily life, impacting the ability to breathe clearly."

The insight comes after research of 2,000 adults commissioned by Sterimar, found the home (42 per cent), garden (28 per cent) and in bed (23 per cent) are the most common places for sneezing fits to take place. Interestingly, 84 per cent actually think their sneezing fits come from nowhere, while 19 per cent have had a sneezing episode in their office or workplace.

As well this this, 35 per cent of allergy sufferers say they find breathing difficult due to their symptoms. In fact, those who suffer with these allergies are even forced to avoid fragrance departments (18 per cent) and pet stores (15 per cent) to prevent outbursts in public.

The research also found 52 per cent of those who have struggled with hayfever symptoms have simply avoided going outside when pollen levels are too high, for an average of over two days. Dr Sara Kayat, on behalf of Sterimar, added: "There are things you can do to help prevent allergic rhinitis in the home, such as dusting with a damp cloth, washing pets and their bedding regularly, using hypoallergenic bedding and keeping your home dry and well-ventilated.

"If you already have symptoms and are looking for an alternative to medicines, using a natural nasal spray can be effective and a good option for hayfever sufferers too. Another useful method is wearing wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your nose and eyes."

Top 10 causes of hayfever

1. Fresh flowers

2. Perfumes

3. Air fresheners

4. Cleaning products

5. Spices and seasonings

6. Pets

7. House plants

8. Scented candles

9. Old books

10. Incense sticks