A sneeze, or 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.Encyclopedia Entry for Sneezing :Sneezing. Sneezing is caused by irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose or throat. It can be very bothersome, but is rarely a sign of a serious problem. Sneezing can be due to: Allergy to pollen ( hay fever ), mold, dander, dust Breathing in corticosteroids (from certain nose sprays) Common cold or the flu Drug withdrawal Triggers such as dust, air pollution, dry air, spicy foods, strong emotions, certain medicines, and powders.Avoiding exposure to the allergen is the best way to control sneezing caused by allergies. An allergen is something that causes an allergic reaction. Tips to reduce your exposure: Change furnace filters Remove pets from the home to get rid of animal dander Use air filters to reduce pollen in the air Wash linens in hot water (at least 130 F or 54 C) to kill dust mites In some cases, you may need to move out of a home with a mold spore problem. Sneezing that is not due to an allergy will disappear when the illness that is causing it is cured or treated.Call your health care provider if sneezing is affecting your life and home remedies do not work.Your provider will perform a physical exam and look at your nose and throat. You'll be asked about your medical history and symptoms. Questions may include when the sneezing started, whether you have other symptoms, or if you have allergies. In some cases, allergy testing may be needed to find the cause. Your provider will suggest treatments and lifestyle changes for hay fever symptoms.Sternutation; Allergy - sneezing; Hay fever - sneezing; Flu - sneezing; Cold - sneezing; Dust - sneezing.Allergic rhinitis - what to ask your doctor - adult Allergic rhinitis - what to ask your doctor - child.Throat anatomy Throat anatomy.Eccles R. The nose and control of nasal airflow.