The Science Behind a Sneeze
Sneezing, or sternutation, is a natural, involuntary reflex that clears irritants and foreign particles from your nasal passages. Triggered by the trigeminal nerve, a sneeze involves a deep inhalation followed by a powerful, rapid exhalation that expels irritants like dust, pollen, or pathogens. When you block this reflex, the immense pressure generated is redirected internally, which can have potential consequences for your body. A computer simulation found that holding in a sneeze can produce a burst of air pressure approximately 24 times that of a normal sneeze.
Health Risks of Suppressing a Sneeze
While the most severe complications are highly unlikely, the act of stifling a sneeze does carry certain risks due to the redirection of high-pressure air. These risks, ranging from minor to extremely rare and severe, should not be ignored.
Potential Minor and Rare Injuries
- Ruptured Eardrum: The pressure can travel from the nasal passages to the middle ear via the Eustachian tubes. This can cause significant pressure on the eardrum, potentially causing it to rupture.
- Ear Infections: Redirecting infected mucus back into the middle ear, particularly during a cold, can increase the risk of developing an ear infection.
- Sinus Problems: Suppressing a sneeze forces irritants and germs back into the sinuses, which may contribute to pain, congestion, or sinus infections.
- Burst Blood Vessels: The sudden spike in internal pressure can rupture small, superficial blood vessels in the eyes or nose, leading to red spots (subconjunctival hemorrhages) in the eye or a minor nosebleed.
- Chest and Throat Pain: The unnatural pressure buildup can lead to a feeling of uncomfortable fullness or pain in the chest. In extremely rare instances, a forceful stifled sneeze has been linked to a ruptured throat.
Extremely Rare but Serious Consequences
While highly uncommon, case reports have documented more serious issues resulting from suppressed sneezes.
- Brain Aneurysm Rupture: In very rare instances, the pressure from a held-in sneeze can cause a pre-existing brain aneurysm to rupture.
- Laryngeal Fracture: Violent sneezing fits or stifling them has, in isolated cases, been linked to fractures in the larynx (voice box).
Safely Inducing a Sneeze When the Urge Fades
Sometimes, the tickle is there, but the sneeze just won't come out. Rather than forcing it by unnatural means, which is not recommended, there are several safe ways to encourage a natural sneeze reflex. These methods stimulate the trigeminal nerve, which controls sneezing, without the risks associated with building internal pressure.
- Tickle Your Nose: Gently tickling the inside of your nostril with a tissue or cotton swab can help trigger the reflex.
- Find a Bright Light: For the 17-35% of the population with the photic sneeze reflex, looking at a bright light can trigger a sneeze. Just be sure not to look directly at the sun.
- Rub the Roof of Your Mouth: Use your tongue to firmly rub the roof of your mouth, specifically the area just behind your front teeth, until the urge passes or the sneeze is triggered.
- Inhale a Strong Scent: The inhalation of a strong, non-harmful scent like black pepper can irritate the nasal lining and induce a sneeze.
Comparison: Holding In vs. Letting Out a Sneeze
| Feature | Holding in a Sneeze | Letting Out a Sneeze Safely |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | Redirected internally, creating significant buildup. | Expelled naturally, releasing pressure as intended. |
| Risks | Minor risks include eardrum damage, sinus issues. Rare risks include throat rupture, aneurysm. | Minimal risk, primarily involving the spread of germs. |
| Body's Intent | Acts against the body's natural defense mechanism to clear irritants. | Works with the body's natural reflex to expel foreign particles. |
| Best Practice | Avoid if possible; if necessary, release air through the mouth slightly. | Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow to prevent germ spread. |
The Proper Way to Sneeze
For everyone's safety, the best course of action is to let a sneeze out while practicing good hygiene. This protects both you and those around you from germ transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides clear guidelines for safe sneezing practices.
- Use a Tissue: When you feel a sneeze coming, grab a tissue. Sneeze into the tissue, and immediately dispose of it in a trash bin.
- Sneeze into Your Elbow: If a tissue is not available, the next best option is to sneeze into the crook of your elbow. This keeps germs off your hands, preventing you from spreading them to surfaces or other people.
- Wash Your Hands: After sneezing, whether into a tissue or your elbow, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Conclusion
While the desire to suppress a sneeze in a public setting is understandable, the potential risks to your body far outweigh the temporary social discomfort. The immense pressure generated by a sneeze is meant to be released, not contained. By practicing safe sneezing habits and allowing the reflex to occur naturally, you can protect your own health and prevent the spread of germs. Always remember, a loud sneeze is far better than a potential health complication.
For more information on safe practices and germ prevention, visit the CDC's recommendations at https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/coughing-and-sneezing.html.
