Reverse sneezing, also called Pharyngeal gag reflex, is a temporary spasm that can last from a few seconds to a minute. It is usually harmless, but can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Reverse sneezing often occurs in small breed and brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs. It can be triggered by anything that affects the nose, sinuses or throat. Irritants include pollen, dust, smoke, odors, grasses, allergies and nasal mites. oepbr.org
What is Reverse Sneezing?
Reverse sneezing is a gag reflex that causes your dog to suck in air instead of blowing it out through the nose. It happens most commonly in dogs, and fortunately, it rarely requires medical treatment.
Beagles are especially prone to reverse sneezing. They are a strong smelling breed and will inhale foreign substances like pollen, grass, and seeds that can become trapped inside their nasal passages.
When this irritant reaches the trachea, mucus encapsulates it and transports it up and out of the respiratory tract. This rapid inhalation is often accompanied by a noisy inspiratory effort and a snorting noise.
Causes
Reverse sneezing is a common behavior that dogs exhibit at some point. However, it is generally harmless and not cause for concern.
When a dog reverse sneezes, they stop what they are doing, extend their head and neck, and emit a loud snorting sound. Owners may mistake these episodes for respiratory distress, coughing, or choking.
The episode usually lasts a few seconds to a minute and doesn’t require medical treatment.
Reverse sneezing can occur as a symptom of many different health conditions, including allergies, foreign bodies, nasal tumors, and nasal polyps. If your dog is experiencing reverse sneezing and other symptoms, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for an exam.
Symptoms
Reverse sneezing can sound like your dog is choking, but it’s actually just an involuntary reflex. It is triggered by an irritation of the soft palate and throat, which results in a spasm that causes the dog to inhale quickly.
It usually ends within a few minutes, and there is no cause for alarm. But if it happens more often or for longer periods, this may indicate something else is going on with your pet.
Chronic or frequent reverse sneezing can be caused by a respiratory condition, such as nasal mites, polyps, allergies, or a postnasal drip. Your vet will be able to determine if these conditions are present and will then recommend appropriate treatment.
Impact on the Dog’s Health
Dog parents are often concerned about the impact of reverse sneezing on their dogs. However, unless your pet is exhibiting other signs of respiratory distress or has a medical condition, reverse sneezing is usually benign and not cause for concern.
Reverse sneezing is commonly caused by pollen, grass awns, mites, allergies, and other environmental or irritants that can block the dog’s airway or cause inflammation in the nose. Cleaning and removing these irritants can help alleviate reverse sneezing.
When your dog is experiencing regular or excessive episodes, it may be time to visit the vet. A veterinarian can determine the underlying cause of the reverse sneezing and recommend a treatment regimen that works for your dog.
Prevention
Reverse sneezing is a common occurrence in beagles and can be uncomfortable for both you and your dog. While most episodes resolve without a problem, it is best to take your dog to a vet if reverse sneezing becomes a recurring problem.
In most cases, reverse sneezing is caused by environmental factors like a strong odor or an allergen. Clearing your dog’s nostrils of these irritants can help prevent the condition from occurring.
You can also help stop reverse sneezing by gently pinching your dog’s nose, blowing on their face, and speaking to them in a soothing voice. A treat or food may also help your beagle to swallow, which can put an end to the episode. Please visit here oepbr.org for more information.
