What Happens When You Hold in a Sneeze? The Surprising Truth

Sneezing is a natural and reflexive action that occurs when your body needs to expel irritants from your nasal passages. While sneezing can be inconvenient, especially in public or during important moments, the question arises: is it harmful to hold in a sneeze? Many people suppress sneezes for various reasons, ranging from social etiquette to fear of spreading germs. However, what are the potential risks associated with this seemingly harmless act? In this comprehensive article, we will explore the anatomy and physiology of sneezing, the dangers of holding in a sneeze, and the best practices to follow when you feel a sneeze coming on.

The Physiology of Sneezing

To understand the potential dangers of holding in a sneeze, it’s essential first to grasp how sneezing works. A sneeze is your body’s natural defense mechanism to clear the nasal passages of irritants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, or even viral particles. When these irritants enter the nose, they stimulate the trigeminal nerve, which sends a signal to the brain. The brain then triggers a series of coordinated actions involving muscles in the chest, diaphragm, and throat, resulting in the expulsion of air through the nose and mouth.

During a sneeze, the body expels air at a speed of up to 100 miles per hour, releasing up to 5,000 droplets of saliva and mucus. This powerful force is designed to clear the nasal passages effectively, ensuring that any potential irritants are removed.

The Dangers of Holding in a Sneeze

While it may seem harmless to stifle a sneeze, the force generated during this reflex is considerable. By suppressing a sneeze, you prevent the body from releasing this built-up pressure, which can lead to several potential complications:

1. Increased Pressure in the Nasal Passages and Ears

When you hold in a sneeze, the pressure that would normally be released is instead redirected into the nasal passages and eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. This can result in a sudden increase in pressure in these areas, potentially causing damage. In extreme cases, this pressure can lead to a ruptured eardrum or even damage to the inner ear structures, leading to hearing loss or vertigo.

1. Rupture of Blood Vessels

The force of a suppressed sneeze can cause small blood vessels in the nasal passages or even in the eyes to rupture. While this may result in a minor nosebleed or red, bloodshot eyes, it’s a clear indication that holding in a sneeze can exert undue stress on delicate tissues.

1. Throat Injury

The throat is another area that can be affected by the high pressure generated during a suppressed sneeze. In rare cases, the force can cause a rupture in the pharynx, the area of the throat behind the mouth and nasal cavity. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, as it can lead to difficulty breathing and swallowing.

1. Risk of Air Embolism

One of the more severe potential consequences of holding in a sneeze is the risk of an air embolism. An air embolism occurs when air is forced into the bloodstream, which can then travel to the heart, brain, or other vital organs. While this is extremely rare, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that underscores the risks associated with suppressing a sneeze.

1. Sinus Infections

Sneezing is your body’s way of expelling irritants and pathogens from the nasal passages. By holding in a sneeze, you prevent your body from clearing out these particles, which can lead to a buildup of mucus and an increased risk of sinus infections. Over time, this can lead to chronic sinusitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the sinus cavities.

1. Damage to the Diaphragm

The diaphragm plays a crucial role in the process of sneezing, helping to generate the force needed to expel air from the lungs. Suppressing a sneeze can cause a sudden, intense contraction of the diaphragm, leading to pain or even injury. In rare cases, this can result in a condition known as diaphragmatic rupture, which may require surgical intervention.

What to Do When You Feel a Sneeze Coming On

Given the potential risks associated with holding in a sneeze, it’s clear that it’s safer to let your body complete the reflex naturally. However, there are situations where sneezing might be inconvenient or socially awkward. Here are some tips on how to handle a sneeze when you feel it coming on:

1. Use a Tissue or Handkerchief

Always carry a tissue or handkerchief with you, especially during allergy season or cold and flu season. When you feel a sneeze coming on, use the tissue to cover your nose and mouth, which will help to catch the droplets and prevent the spread of germs.

1. Sneeze into Your Elbow

If you don’t have a tissue or handkerchief handy, sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands. This helps to prevent the spread of germs to surfaces that others may touch, reducing the risk of spreading illnesses.

1. Turn Away from Others

If you’re in a public place and feel a sneeze coming on, try to turn away from others before sneezing. This can help to minimize the spread of germs and protect those around you.

1. Practice Good Hygiene

After sneezing, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This helps to kill any germs that may be present on your hands after sneezing.

1. Consider Preventive Measures

If you find yourself sneezing frequently due to allergies, consider taking preventive measures such as using antihistamines, nasal sprays, or air purifiers. These can help to reduce your exposure to allergens and minimize the need to sneeze.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While holding in a sneeze is generally discouraged due to the risks outlined above, it’s important to recognize when a sneeze-related injury requires medical attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms after holding in a sneeze, seek medical help immediately:

• Severe pain in the ears, throat, or chest
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears
• Persistent nosebleeds
• Swelling or pain in the face or neck

These symptoms could indicate a more serious injury that requires prompt treatment to prevent further complications.

The Bottom Line

Sneezing is a natural and necessary bodily function that helps to protect your respiratory system from irritants and pathogens. While it may be tempting to hold in a sneeze in certain situations, doing so can pose significant risks to your health. The pressure generated during a sneeze is considerable, and suppressing it can lead to a range of potential injuries, from ruptured blood vessels to throat injuries and even air embolisms. To protect your health, it’s best to let your body sneeze naturally and take appropriate measures to minimize the spread of germs. Remember, it’s always better to sneeze safely than to risk the consequences of holding it in.