Understanding Sneezing: Causes, Prevention, and Relief

Sneezing is a reflex action to clear the nasal passage, often triggered by irritants or colds.

Sneezing FAQ

Why does my nose sneeze?

A sneeze happens when something like mucus, a tiny object, or an allergen interacts with skin or the tiny hairs that line your nose. Sneezing is a mechanism your body uses to clear the nose. When foreign matter such as dirt, pollen, smoke, or dust enters the nostrils, the nose may become irritated or tickled.

How does a person sneeze?

You close your eyes, take a deep breath, relax the muscles in your throat, and then force air, saliva, and mucus out of your nose and mouth. All of those actions happen in only a few seconds. All sneezes begin and end the same way, but everyone has their own signature sneeze. In fact, a person's sneeze is almost as unique as their voice.

How does a sneeze work?

A sneeze expels air forcibly from the mouth and nose in an explosive, spasmodic involuntary action. This action allows for mucus to escape through the nasal cavity.

What causes a sneeze & sternutation?

A sneeze (also known as sternutation) is a semi-autonomous, convulsive expulsion of air from the lungs through the nose and mouth, usually caused by foreign particles irritating the nasal mucosa. A sneeze expels air forcibly from the mouth and nose in an explosive, spasmodic involuntary action.

Can rhinitis cause sneezing & runny nose?

Persistent rhinitis typically causes sneezing and a blocked, itchy and runny nose. An allergy is a common cause but there are also non-allergic causes. Treatment options include avoiding things that cause an allergy, an antihistamine nasal spray, antihistamine tablets and a steroid nasal spray. Other treatments are sometimes used. What is rhinitis?

Is sneezing a symptom of an infection?

Sneezing is rarely the only symptom of an infection, but it can be a prominent one. For the hundreds of viruses known collectively as “ the common cold ,” sneezing is often a major symptom. It’s most experienced alongside some combination of coughing, headache, body aches, and runny nose .