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Alternative names Return to top
SternutationDefinition Return to top
A sneeze is a sudden, forceful, involuntary burst of air through the nose and mouth.Considerations Return to top
Sneezing, caused by irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose or throat, can be very bothersome but is generally not a sign of a serious problem.Common Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
Avoiding exposure to the offending allergen is the most effective means of controlling sneezing caused by allergic diseases. Some suggestions to minimize exposure include: removing pets from the home to avoid animal dander, changing furnace filters, using air filtration devices to minimize the concentration of airborne pollens, or traveling to areas with low pollen counts during the critical periods. Even changing residence to eliminate 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 health care provider if Return to top
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
Your medical provider will obtain a medical history and do a physical examination.The physical examination will include an examination of the upper respiratory tract. Diagnostic tests may include allergy testing.
Intervention:
Antihistamines are the first line of therapy for sneezing caused by allergies.
Nasal steroid sprays may be helpful in more chronic conditions.
Immunotherapy (often called hyposensitization), which consists of repeated subcutaneous injections of gradually increasing concentration of the allergen(s), may be considered for clearly documented seasonal diseases that cannot be managed with other drugs because of their side effects.
After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to sneezing, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |