Snatiation

Snatiation is a medical term that refers to a condition where a person experiences uncontrollable bouts of sneezing brought on by fullness of the stomach, typically following a large meal. It is considered a fairly rare condition and is believed to be genetically inherited. The term "snatiation" is a portmanteau of the words "sneeze" and "satiation".

Causes

The exact cause of snatiation is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be a genetic disorder, as it often runs in families. The condition is thought to be triggered by the stomach becoming full, which somehow leads to a sneezing reflex. This is different from typical sneezing, which is usually caused by irritation in the nose.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of snatiation is uncontrollable sneezing following a meal. The sneezing can last for several minutes and can be quite intense. Other symptoms may include a runny nose and watery eyes, similar to allergic rhinitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of snatiation can be challenging, as the condition is quite rare and the symptoms can be similar to other conditions, such as allergic rhinitis or a common cold. A detailed medical history and physical examination are typically required. In some cases, a referral to a specialist, such as an allergist or gastroenterologist, may be necessary.

Treatment

There is currently no specific treatment for snatiation. Management of the condition typically involves avoiding large meals and eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. In some cases, antihistamines may be recommended to help control the sneezing.

See Also

• Sneezing
• Genetic disorder
• Allergic rhinitis
• Common cold