Why do we sneeze at the beginning of a cold?

Sneezing as a harbinger of illness: why the body sends an alarm signal even before cold symptoms appear

When a cold virus attacks the nasal mucosa, it immediately begins to invade cells. The immune system doesn't waste a second and releases special substances that irritate the mucous membrane. Nerve endings instantly detect this signal, triggering the protective sneezing reflex. This way, the body tries to expel viral particles along with dust and other irritants that have entered the respiratory tract.

Sneezing can rightfully be called the vanguard of immune defense. This mechanism effectively cleans the nasal passages and partially blocks the spread of infection. That's why many people notice that a cold often begins with a series of sudden sneezes.

It's important to note that not every sneeze signals an impending illness. Allergens, sharp temperature changes, or intense odors can cause a similar reaction. The key difference with cold-related sneezing is that it's soon joined by a whole bouquet of symptoms: runny nose, general weakness, and malaise.

Thus, sneezing before a cold serves as an early warning. It's a kind of alarm signal indicating that the immune system has already detected the enemy and is actively trying to stop its advance at the earliest frontiers.