Sneezing in man is controlled by?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which part of the brain controls sneezing. Sneezing is a reflex action, which is rapid, automatic, and involuntary.

Step 2: Explain the concept Involuntary actions that keep the body alive and protect it are controlled by the brain stem, especially the medulla oblongata. It controls:

• Breathing
• Heartbeat
• Blood pressure
• Swallowing, coughing, vomiting, and sneezing

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Cerebellum: controls balance, posture, and coordination of voluntary movement. It is not responsible for sneezing.
• B. Cerebrum: controls voluntary actions, thinking, memory, and reasoning. Sneezing is not voluntary.
• C. Hypothalamus: regulates body temperature, hunger, thirst, and water balance. It is not the sneeze centre.
• D. Pineal body: secretes melatonin, which regulates sleep rhythms. It has nothing to do with sneezing.
• E. Medulla oblongata: contains the reflex centres for sneezing, coughing, and similar actions. This is correct.

Step 4: Answer When something irritates the lining of the nose, sensory nerves send impulses to the medulla oblongata. The medulla then sends impulses to the muscles of the chest, diaphragm, and throat, which forces air out suddenly through the nose and mouth.

Tip: Remember "Medulla = Maintenance of life and Minor reflexes" (breathing, heartbeat, coughing, sneezing, vomiting). In exams, if the action is automatic and involuntary and is not about balance or temperature, think medulla oblongata.