Why Do We Sneeze

Do you know that like humans, animals sneeze as well, but do you ever wonder what triggers sneezing? Sneezing is a reflex action. A reflex action is an action, where the body does something automatically and you do not have any control over them. Before we find answers to questions like why do we sneeze when we have a cold, or when we are sick, etc., let's understand, what is a sneeze exactly.

What is a Sneeze?

A sneeze is a convulsive expulsion of air from the lungs, which is thrown out through the nose and mouth. A person does not have any control on this semi-autonomous action. A sneeze is formed, due to spasm of the chest and of the pharynx, which connects the esophagus and the nasal cavity. When the nerve endings in the nose lining detect any irritating substance, an impulse is sent to the part of the brain which controls the involuntary actions.

What Triggers Sneezing?

The nose does the work of an air purifier. It cleanses the air that has entered, which may consist of bacteria and other particles. The sneezing action is caused by foreign particles irritating the nasal mucosa. In other words, sneezing is actually one of the body's ways of expelling harmful substances that have entered the body. There are a number of reasons, why this action can be triggered. Sneezing can be caused due to viral infection, pollen, animal hair, perfume, cold air, smoke, dust or anything which can tickle the nasal passages.

There are chances, that the body can read the irritant wrong. This mostly happens in case of allergies. The body assumes that a pollen, although harmless, is trying to attack the body. Due to this, it releases chemicals like histamine and the person starts sneezing. When some people step out in the sun, they sneeze. According to a research, 1 out of 3 people sneeze when they are exposed to bright light. Such people are called Photic Sneezers. It is a hereditary condition, which runs in the family.

Do you now have a question what causes sneezing when we have a cold and flu. Normally, when a person has cold, the nasal passages are blocked. Sneezing clears up these passages, so that fresh air can pass into the system. In some cases, there can be allergens, which need to be eliminated from the body. The body does so through sneezing. There are other people who would want to know what triggers sneezing and coughing. Like sneezing clears the nasal passages, coughing clears dust and other harmful particles from the windpipe and lungs. Although, it is true that you can cough whenever you want to, the reflex cough is an important defense mechanism of the body. If you do not sneeze or cough, there are chances of you developing infections and also you will allow chemical irritants to damage your airways and lung tissues. Similarly, when we are sick, it is simply to expel the unwelcome germs from the body.

From the entire discussion, I am sure you have understood, why do we sneeze. But I am glad that we do sneeze, else the body would have to work over time to get rid of the unwanted substances. If you notice, you sneeze during the pollen season, then you do not worry, as the body is just reacting to the pollens. However, if sneezing continues for an extended period of time, then you will have to get yourself examined from your health care professional.