Sneezing

What is sneezing?

Sneezing, or sternutation, is a strong, sudden, uncontrolled burst of air through the nose and mouth. Sneezing is caused by an irritation to the nasal lining or the throat. Usually, sneezing is the result of dust or an allergen entering the nose.

While sneezing is often annoying, it is usually not serious. It may occur as part of an allergic reaction or may accompany an infection or illness. Sneezing may also result from a drug interaction, direct stimulation of the nose, such as by a nasal spray or touching of nasal mucosa, or from some other irritant. Sneezing may also accompany vasomotor rhinitis.

Sneezing generally can be prevented by avoiding irritants, such as dust or other allergens. If sneezing results from allergies or infections, removing the allergen, taking allergy medication, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, or treating the infection will usually resolve the sneezing.

Seek prompt medical care if your sneezing is persistent, does not respond to treatment, or is causing you concern.