The Powerful Mechanics of a Sneeze
Sneezing, also known as sternutation, is a powerful, involuntary reflex designed to expel irritants from the nasal passages. This reflex begins with a deep breath, followed by a forceful expulsion of air through the nose and mouth. It's a natural defense mechanism, and suppressing it redirects the powerful force internally, potentially causing various health complications.
Pressure Buildup: What Happens When You Hold Back?
Holding in a sneeze creates a sudden and significant increase in internal pressure. Instead of exiting the body, this pressure is forced back into the respiratory system, impacting areas like the ears, sinuses, and chest. This action, similar to the Valsalva maneuver, can have consequences ranging from minor discomfort to, in very rare instances, severe injuries. The following sections detail the potential risks of stifling a sneeze.
Injuries to the Ear
One common risk involves the ears, due to the connection between the nose and middle ear via the eustachian tubes. Suppressed pressure can travel up these tubes and cause harm like a ruptured eardrum, middle ear infections, or vertigo.
Damages to Blood Vessels
The pressure can also affect blood vessels in the head and neck. While usually not serious, this can lead to burst blood vessels in the eyes or nose. Though extremely rare, a spike in pressure from a suppressed sneeze could potentially rupture a pre-existing brain aneurysm.
Other Potential, Though Rare, Injuries
Medical literature reports other, less common, severe injuries like throat rupture from forcefully blocking the nose and mouth. Other potential risks, while rare, include broken ribs and diaphragm injury.
Comparison of Pressure Release: Free vs. Suppressed Sneeze
| Feature | Natural Sneeze | Suppressed Sneeze |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure Release | External expulsion of air and particles | Internal redirection of high pressure |
| Air Speed | Up to 100 mph expelled | Force trapped and redirected internally |
| Bodily Function | Clears irritants and pathogens | Forces irritants back into the body |
| Risk of Injury | Low, primarily from projectile spray | Increases risk of internal damage |
| Primary Outlet | Nose and mouth | Eustachian tubes, sinuses, chest |
| Common Outcome | Relief and clearing of nasal passages | Discomfort, pain, or lingering pressure |
Safely Managing a Sneeze
Instead of holding back, the safest way to sneeze is to cover your mouth and nose to minimize germ spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends covering with a tissue or your upper sleeve/elbow if a tissue isn't available, and washing hands afterward. If you need to be discreet, subtly opening your mouth or lightly covering your nose and mouth can help redirect pressure without completely blocking it. The key is to avoid forcefully closing both nostrils and the mouth simultaneously.
Conclusion: Prioritize Your Health Over Politeness
While politeness might lead you to stifle a sneeze, doing so carries potential, and sometimes serious, health risks. A sneeze is a powerful and essential bodily function for clearing irritants. The pressure from holding it in can cause injuries from minor issues like a burst eye blood vessel to extremely rare but severe events like a ruptured throat or aneurysm. It's generally safest to allow the sneeze to occur. By following proper etiquette, such as covering your mouth and washing your hands, you can protect yourself and others.
