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Sneezing Health Channel

Feature Article

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Throat anatomy

Sneezing

Definition

A sneeze is a sudden, forceful, involuntary burst of air through the nose and mouth.

See also:

Alternative Names

Sternutation

Considerations

Sneezing is caused by irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose or throat. It can be very bothersome, but is generally not a sign of a serious problem.

Common Causes

Home Care

Avoiding exposure to the offending allergen is the best way to control sneezing caused by allergies.

Tips to reduce your exposure:

  • Change furnace filters
  • Remove pets from the home to eliminate animal dander
  • Travel to areas with low pollen counts
  • Use air filtration devices to reduce pollen in the air
  • Wash linens in hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit) to temporarily kill dust mites

In some cases, moving out of a home with a mold spore problem may be necessary.

Sneezing not due to an allergy will disappear when the underlying disorder is cured or treated.

Call your health care provider if

Call your provider if sneezing adversely affects your life and home remedies do not work.

What to expect at your health care provider's office

Your medical provider will perform a physical exam and examine your the upper respiratory tract. You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms such as:

  • During what time of year is sneezing the worst?
  • When did the sneezing begin?
  • How long do sneezing episodes last?
  • Do you have a history of allergies?
  • Have you been outdoors more than usual?
  • Do you have any new pets?
  • What have you done to try to relieve the sneezing?

Continue reading this article

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Vasomotor rhinitis is a nonallergic condition that causes a constant runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.Reviewer: Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. Date: 01/05/2009
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