Unusual noise coming from ball python

[Stormbringer]

I have an almost year old female ball python that I got in May from a reputable breeder. I have never had any problems with her and she is a good feeder, sheds fully, and has never had any previous health problems. She is kept in a 50g custom tank with plenty of cover including two hides (warm/cold), with the warm spot between 88-92* and the cool spot at around 79*.

Today, I have been hearing a rather peculiar noise coming from her (possibly?). I first noticed it when I was traveling to my dad's house (hour long ride, no heat). About 30 minutes into the trip I heard a weird noise, but I figured it was the plant cover I provided for her, her scales brushing against it. I heard it twice more 10 and 15 minutes apart, but I wasn't entirely sure it was her. My dad stopped briefly at a Best Buy to pick up something and I heard the noise *again*, and it definitely didn't sound like the plant leaves. The only other possibility was that she made the noise... but why? The best I can describe it is as a brief sigh or 'relaxed' sneeze. Not a hiss. I brought her transport cage up for her to bask in the sun while waiting for my dad to return, and she curled up in her hide and relaxed for the rest of the trip after that. As soon as I got home I set up her heating pad, and I didn't hear the odd noise again for the entire day until 10 minutes ago.

I picked her up and held her beneath a lamp to check her nostrils, mouth, and eyes. Everything looks normal, and the nostrils don't have any mucus/bubbling like you would typically see with a respiratory condition (which I very much hope this isn't). She also has no wheezing/noticeable breathing difficulties (her breathing is silent and relaxed), and I have not seen what she does when she makes the noise, as it is seemingly random and infrequent.

It started up after we got in the car, so perhaps she was chilled? I didn't think an hour-long ride without a heating pad would cause a negative reaction; would I need to add a heat pack or some other temporary heating in her transportation cage?

I will be keeping an eye on her for the next few days, but unfortunately I will be gone tomorrow for 1 1/2 days so I will not know if she is still sneezing(?). If she stops sneezing by the time I return, should I take her to a vet anyways? I figure if she continues to sneeze (still not sure what it is) I should definitely bring her in for a checkup. However, could being away from her for this amount of time seriously worsen whatever's going on if it doesn't clear up? I've lost two pets from unpreventable genetic conditions this year and I'm honestly terrified she might get really sick while I'm gone. ;-;

[AllThatInThemGenes]

would I need to add a heat pack or some other temporary heating in her transportation cage?

i don't think so.

If she stops sneezing by the time I return, should I take her to a vet anyways?

a lot of people will say yes. if you keep an eye on her and she does not do it again you should be fine.

I've lost two pets from unpreventable genetic conditions this year and I'm honestly terrified she might get really sick while I'm gone. ;-;

really sorry to hear that.

However, could being away from her for this amount of time seriously worsen whatever's going on if it doesn't clear up?

she should be fine for a day and 1/2. keep a close eye on her, if things worsen or continue it will be vet time. even if it comes to vet time she will probably be fine good luck and don't stress too much!