Lifespan's A - Z Health Information Library

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

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.

• Allergy to pollen, mold, dander, dust (hay fever)
• Virus infections (common cold, upper respiratory tract infections)
• Drug withdrawal
• Corticosteroid inhalation
• Nasal irritants such as dust and powders

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

Tips to reduce your exposure: 

• Remove pets from the home to eliminate animal dander
• Change furnace filters
• Use air filtration devices to reduce pollen in the air
• Travel to areas with low pollen counts

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

For sneezing not caused by an allergy, the problem will disappear when the underlying disorder is cured or treated.

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

Your medical provider will obtain a medical history. You may be asked:

• 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?
• What have you done to try to relieve the sneezing?
• How well has it worked?
• What other symptoms are also present?

A physical examination will also be performed. The doctor will examine your the upper respiratory tract. In some cases, allergy testing may be needed to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment:

Antihistamines are the first line of therapy for sneezing caused by allergies. Nasal steroid sprays may be helpful in more chronic conditions.

Allergy shots, also called immunotherapy or hyposensitization, may be considered for seasonal diseases that cannot be managed with other drugs because of their side effects.