We sneeze to expel germs and other foreign particles that enter our nose. When the tiny hairlike cilia sense these foreign particles, they work to expel the irritants as quickly as possible.
Irritants can be anywhere. The most common culprits are pollen, pet dander, ragweed, and mold. When we say we are allergic to one of these things, it means the immune system is sensitive to it and sees it as an irritant to be expelled.
New research at the University of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia VA Medical Center suggests that in addition to clearing nasal passages, a sneeze works to excite the cilia into high-alert for several minutes after the sneeze, which helps to reset the nasal system to neutral.
If you’re sneezing more than you like, the best way to not sneeze is to avoid irritants. During high allergy season, keep an eye on weather and pollen reports and keep doors and windows closed whenever possible. Vacuuming often and using an in-home air purification system can help as well.
If your allergies are negatively impacting your day-to-day life, come and see us at Orlando ENT. An ear, nose, and throat doctor can help to make you feel more comfortable.
