Test Your Knowledge

Although sneezing is not usually a sign of a serious problem, there are a number of medical conditions that include sneezing as a major symptom. These include:

• Allergies. An overreaction of the body to a harmless substance leading to symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. In some cases, the reaction is more extreme, resulting in hives, eczema (skin inflammation) or breathing difficulties.
  
  
• Colds/flu. Contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses. Cold and flu symptoms are similar to allergy symptoms. These conditions trigger sneezing by causing swelling and irritation in the nose. Contrary to popular belief, cold viruses are very rarely spread by airborne particles released during a sneeze.
  
  
• Whooping cough. A contagious disease in which a dry cough worsens over time, producing a “whooping” sound. Other symptoms include fever, runny nose, sneezing and possible vomiting. A vaccine is available.
  
  
• Other serious disease. There are several serious diseases whose symptoms include sneezing. These diseases include tuberculosis, mononucleosis and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).