DEAR DR. GOTT: Most of the time after eating a meal, especially if I maybe eat a little too much, I get the sneezes. They start before I can get up from the table and continue for up to 10 sneezes. Is this something I should worry about or is it normal in some people and no cause for alarm?

DEAR READER: The act of sneezing is generally caused by dust or smoke that acts as an irritant, by allergies, the use of nasal sprays, and several other situations. It is generally not indicative of an underlying medical condition but it can be related to the foods you eat. A condition known as gustatory rhinitis can cause sneezing, a runny nose, or congestion that can be triggered by any type of food but occurs primarily following the ingestion of hot, spicy dishes or alcohol. Cold foods can also cause the reaction, as they have the capability of activating a nervous system reaction.
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