We’ve all been there – you’re in a quiet meeting, on public transit, or in a situation where sneezing would be embarrassing. So, you do what seems polite: you hold it in. But have you ever wondered what happens inside your body when you suppress a sneeze? Could this simple act actually harm your health? Let’s break it down.
Why Do We Sneeze?
Sneezing is your body’s natural defense mechanism. When something irritates your nasal passages – dust, allergens, or even a sudden change in temperature – your brain signals your body to expel the irritant forcefully. A sneeze can travel at speeds of up to 160 km/h, helping to clear out unwanted particles from your nose and respiratory system.
What Happens When You Hold in a Sneeze?
When you stop a sneeze mid-action by pinching your nose or keeping your mouth shut, all that built-up pressure has nowhere to go. Instead of being released outward, it gets redirected internally, and this can lead to some surprising health risks.
1. Ear Damage (Possible Ruptured Eardrum)
Your ears, nose, and throat are all connected through the Eustachian tubes. When you suppress a sneeze, the sudden increase in pressure can push air into your middle ear, potentially causing pain, dizziness, or even a ruptured eardrum. While rare, some people have experienced temporary hearing loss from excessive pressure in their ears.
2. Sinus and Nasal Issues
Sneezing helps clear out your sinuses, but when you hold it in, the trapped air can force mucus and bacteria deeper into your sinus cavities. Over time, this may lead to sinus infections or prolonged nasal congestion.
3. Increased Blood Pressure and Eye Strain
The sudden buildup of internal pressure can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure, leading to red eyes or broken capillaries in the face. While it’s unlikely to cause serious harm in healthy individuals, people with high blood pressure or eye conditions like glaucoma may be at greater risk.
4. Potential Throat Injury
In extreme cases, the force of a stifled sneeze has been reported to cause small tears in the throat. A documented case in the UK saw a man develop a hole in his throat from suppressing a particularly strong sneeze, leaving him temporarily unable to swallow or speak properly.
Should You Ever Hold in a Sneeze?
While the risks of holding in a sneeze are generally low, they do exist. If you’re in a situation where sneezing freely isn’t ideal, try these alternatives:
- Sneeze into your elbow rather than holding it in. This prevents the spread of germs while still allowing your body to release the pressure.
- Turn away and sneeze into a tissue if possible. This minimizes disruption to those around you.
- Control your exposure to sneeze triggers by avoiding allergens, using air purifiers, or washing your hands frequently.
Sneezing is a necessary bodily function designed to protect your respiratory system. While the occasional suppressed sneeze isn’t likely to cause major harm, making it a habit could lead to unnecessary health risks. So next time you feel a sneeze coming on, let it out – your ears, sinuses, and throat will thank you!
