Snake sneezing but not respiratory infection?

[ygella]

Hi guys, I have 1.5 year old russian rat snake which keeps on sneezing or coughing multiple types per day. He has been sneezing for the past 2 weeks. I did lots of search on the web and they all suggested that sneezing is a sign of respiratory infections, however my snake doesn't have any other symptoms, there is no whizzing sound when he breaths, i opened his mouth a few times and there were no bubbles, his nostrils are clear and he doesnt hold his head up when he is breathing and he has been eating no problem.
I changed his bedding with new aspen bedding because I though maybe it was dust making him sneeze, but that didnt help. I keep the temp. in the tank around 75-85 F and he does have a heating pad.
I'm just really concerned because he has been sneezing for 2 weeks now and I dont know what is causing it.
I would take him to a vet but the closest one involves 20 mins of walking + public transport in the cold winter since I'm a student and I dont have a car.
Do you guys have any ideas how I can help him? thanks.

[Chip]

What bedding are you using? Can you post a photo of your set up? ANY chance you could get a pic of the inside of it's mouth? I know that's a stretch, but if you can, that would be helpful. You mentioned this just started in the last two weeks.... what has changed? Any cleaning chemical, etc.?

[bitsy]

Is he coming up to a shed? If it's taking a long time, that's a possibility. When they shed, the old skin loosens at the snout first, sometimes causing irritation around the nostrils then sneezing or huffing as a result.

[ygella]

I didn't change anything before the sneezing started, it's all been the same stuff.
However, he just started showing signs of shedding 2-3 days ago, so I'm gonna wait a few days until he sheds and report back, possibly with pictures. Thanks for the speedy reply guys, I really appreciate it :)

[bitsy]

It certainly sounds hopeful. Let us know how it goes :)

...and we like pictures anyway!

[ygella]

Hi Guys,

Turns out it was just the skin in the nostrils making him sneeze. He has been doing fine after he shed :D
I wanna thank you guys for the help and support.

I tried to take some pics but the quality isnt good (Sorry, cellphone camera)

[ygella]

Here are the pictures anyway :P
http://i47.tinypic.com/24ctgy0.jpg
http://i46.tinypic.com/1zz6mir.jpg
http://i47.tinypic.com/2n6xdms.jpg
http://i49.tinypic.com/1488ed.jpg

[Chip]

Glad he's better! Nice looking digs he has!

[bitsy]

Glad to hear the good news. He's a handsome chap!