The Hazards of Suppressing Sneezes: Why You Shouldn’t Hold It In
Sneezing is a natural bodily function that helps to clear the nasal passages of irritants such as dust, allergens, and germs. However, many people try to suppress or hold in their sneezes, often in an attempt to avoid spreading germs or making noise in public places. While this may seem like a polite gesture, it can actually be quite dangerous and potentially lead to serious health issues.
The Power of a Sneeze
A sneeze is a powerful expulsion of air from the nose and mouth, with mucus droplets traveling at speeds of up to 100 mph. This forceful expulsion is made possible by intense pressure buildup in the respiratory system. When you try to hold in a sneeze, this pressure can increase by up to 24 times, putting immense strain on various parts of your body.
Potential Risks and Consequences
Suppressing a sneeze can lead to a range of health risks, some of which can be quite severe. Here are some of the potential consequences of holding in a sneeze:
Ruptured Eardrum: The intense pressure buildup caused by holding in a sneeze can potentially rupture your eardrum, leading to pain, bleeding, and potential hearing loss.
Diaphragm Injury: The diaphragm is a crucial muscle involved in breathing, and the sudden pressure from a suppressed sneeze can cause it to become strained or even herniated.
Throat Damage: The forceful expulsion of air during a sneeze can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat, and holding it in can exacerbate this issue.
Ear Infections: The pressure buildup from a suppressed sneeze can force air and bacteria into the Eustachian tubes, increasing the risk of ear infections.
Vertigo: Some individuals may experience vertigo, a sensation of dizziness and loss of balance, after holding in a sneeze due to the sudden changes in pressure within the body.
Broken Blood Vessels: In rare cases, the intense pressure buildup can cause blood vessels in the neck, face, or eyes to rupture, leading to bruising, nosebleeds, or even vision problems.
Fractured Ribs: Older adults or individuals with weakened bone structures may be at risk of fracturing their ribs due to the strain caused by suppressing a sneeze.
The Safer Alternative: Let It Out
While the risks of severe injury from holding in a sneeze are relatively low, it’s generally safer and more comfortable to simply let the sneeze happen. Dr. Jason Abramowitz, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), recommends allowing sneezes to occur naturally, as suppressing them can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful.
When you feel the urge to sneeze, it’s best to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or, if none is available, use the crook of your elbow. Sneezing into your hands is generally not recommended unless you can immediately wash them afterward.
The Benefits of Sneezing
Sneezing is a natural defense mechanism that helps your body expel irritants and maintain healthy nasal passages. A study published in The FASEB Journal in 2012 showed that sneezing helps reset the nasal passage by refreshing the cilia lining, which are microscopic hair-like structures that help filter out particles.
Additionally, sneezing is a crucial part of the body’s immune response, helping to remove allergens, germs, and other irritants that could potentially cause illness or discomfort.
Conclusion
While it may seem polite to hold in a sneeze, especially in public settings, doing so can potentially lead to serious health risks. The intense pressure buildup caused by suppressing a sneeze can strain various parts of your body, including your eardrums, diaphragm, throat, and even blood vessels.
Instead of holding it in, it’s generally safer and more comfortable to let the sneeze happen naturally while covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your elbow. Sneezing is a natural bodily function that helps clear your nasal passages and maintain healthy respiratory function, and it’s important to let it occur without restriction.
By understanding the potential hazards of suppressing sneezes and adopting safer sneezing habits, you can protect your health and avoid unnecessary discomfort or injury.