A member asked:

What's the difference between a sneeze and just blowing air out the nose? in other words, why can't i force a sneeze?

5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Sneeze is reflex act: This is one reflex arc which is hard to reproduce.

Answered 9/29/2017

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Reflex: The sneeze reflex can be triggered by even mild stimulation of the the nasal lining. When stimulated, the receptors in the lining send impulses via the fifth cranial nerve (cn v / trigeminal nerve) to sneezing center in the medulla. This triggers the sneeze reflex which is similar to the cough reflex, with the difference being that air is forced out mainly through the nose by depressing the uvula.

Answered 3/21/2012

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