Sneezing

Sneezing is an involuntary response to the irritation of the mucous membranes lining the nose which produces a sudden force of air through the nose and mouth.YourTotalHealth: About Sneezing MedlinePlus: Sneezing

Sneezing Mechanics

Receptors in the nose send a message to the brain when they are stimulated by an irritant, such as dust, dander or bacteria. The brain attempts to expel the irritant from the body by a series of muscular contractions that culminate in a sneeze. A number of muscles are involved in the process, including the abdominal muscles, chest muscles, diaphragm and throat muscles. While not involved in actually generating the sneeze, the muscles in the eyelids automatically contract to close the eyes while sneezing.YourTotalHealth: About Sneezing

Sneezing Triggers

The most common trigger of sneezing is allergies. Other common triggers are dust, pollen, smoke, mold, pet dander, the common cold and exposure to bright lights.MedlinePlus: Sneezing: Causes Healthline: ACHOO Syndrome

Prevention

The best way to prevent sneezing caused by allergies is by removing the allergens. Using an air filter can helps reduce irritants in the air. Sneezing that is caused from another source should stop once the cause of the problem is eliminated.MedlinePlus: Sneezing: Home Care

Photic Sneeze Reflex

The photic sneeze reflex is a condition that is characterized by sneezing when the sufferer is exposed to bright lights. A symptom of this disorder is uncontrollable sneezing multiple times over. This condition is thought to be inherited and usually persists throughout life.MedicineNet: Definition of Photic Sneeze Reflex Healthline: Achoo Syndrome