Why You Should Never Stop a Sneeze (And How to Do It Safely)

Why do we sneeze ? Is it harmful to stop a sneeze ? Is there a safe way to suppress a sneeze, or is it better to let nature take its course ? These are some of the questions this article will answer as we delve into the science of sneezing and why health experts strongly advise against suppressing a sneeze.

The mechanics of sneezing and reasons why we sneeze

The anatomy of a sneeze

Sneezing, also known as sternutation, is an autonomic response that involves multiple muscles in our body. When our nasal mucosa senses an irritant or pathogen, it relays this information to our brain which then triggers a deep breath, closure of the epiglottis (the flap that separates our food and breathing passages), and contraction of several muscles including those in the abdomen, chest, and throat. This series of events leads to a buildup of pressure until finally, our mouth opens, causing us to forcefully expel air through our nose and mouth.

Why do we sneeze ?

Sneezing serves as our body’s natural defense mechanism, helping us expel unwanted particles from our nose or throat. It could be triggered by anything from dust particles, pollen, cold air to infections such as the common cold or flu.

Now that we’ve covered what happens when we sneeze and why let’s explore the risks associated with retaining a sneeze.

Holding back a sneeze: medical risks you shouldn’t ignore

The potential harm in suppressing a sneeze

A recent medical exposition has affirmed that holding back a sneeze can lead to significant complications. When you obstruct a sneeze by pinching your nose or closing your mouth, the pressure in your respiratory tract can increase up to twenty times, potentially leading to serious injuries such as eardrum damage, severe headaches, and even tracheal perforation in extreme cases.

A deeper understanding of these risks will undoubtedly underscore the importance of our body’s natural reflex to sneeze.

The sneezing reflex: a body’s natural defense and its implications

The protective role of sneezing

Sneezing is an integral part of our body’s immune response. It serves to eject irritants and pathogens from our nasal cavity, thus preventing them from reaching our lungs. This involuntary action forms an important line of defense against potential diseases.

When faced with the urge to sneeze, it’s important to let it happen naturally. But what if you’re in a meeting or crowded public place ? How can you handle such situations without risking your health ?

How to safely stop a sneeze without jeopardizing your health

Safe techniques for suppressing a sneeze

If you really must suppress a sneeze, there are safer ways to do so than blocking your nostrils or mouth. Some people find that tickling the roof of their mouth with their tongue or gently rubbing their nose can help quell the urge to sneeze.

Even with these tips at hand, it’s crucial to be well-versed in etiquette when it comes to sneezing in public.

Sneezing etiquette: how to minimize contagion in public

Practicing good hygiene when you need to sneeze

Sneezes can spread droplets laden with pathogens, making it crucial to follow good hygiene practices. Always sneeze into a tissue and dispose of it immediately, or sneeze into your elbow if a tissue isn’t available. Remember to wash your hands afterwards to prevent spreading germs.

To further understand why we should never suppress a sneeze, let’s look at some real-life cases and medical warnings.

Real-life scenarios and medical warnings: the actual consequences of suppressing a sneeze

A case of tracheal perforation caused by suppressed sneezing

Perhaps the most compelling argument against holding back a sneeze is the case reported in December 2023 of a British patient who suffered a tracheal rupture after trying to stifle his sneeze by pinching his nose and closing his mouth. This incident highlights the severe repercussions that can occur when we disregard the natural instinct to sneeze.

In this journey through our body’s wise ways, we’ve learned how essential it is to respect our natural reflexes – even those as seemingly insignificant as a sneeze. So next time you feel that familiar tickle in your nose, remember it’s your body doing what it does best – protecting you. Let that sneeze fly (safely into a tissue of course) !