Holding in a sneeze can lead to several potential health issues, though these complications are rare.
Potential Risks of Suppressing a Sneeze
While it might seem harmless to stifle a sneeze, there are some risks to consider. Here's a breakdown of what could happen, according to the provided information and general knowledge:
Common Issues
- Ruptured Eardrum: The force of a sneeze can cause a rupture in your eardrum if the pressure isn't allowed to release through the nasal passages. This can lead to pain and temporary hearing loss.
- Ruptured Blood Vessels: Superficial blood vessels in the eyes or nose can burst, causing minor bleeding and visible redness. This is generally not serious but can be alarming.
- Throat or Neck Pain: The force of holding back a sneeze can strain the muscles in your throat and neck, leading to discomfort.
Less Common but More Serious Issues
- Rupture of a Brain Aneurysm: Although extremely rare, the increased pressure from suppressing a sneeze could, theoretically, cause a brain aneurysm to rupture, a very dangerous medical emergency.
- Rib Fractures: In very rare instances, the force from a suppressed sneeze might cause a rib fracture, particularly in those with pre-existing bone weakness.
Key Takeaways
- While the risks exist, complications from holding in a sneeze are very rare.
- It's generally better to let a sneeze occur naturally for your body's safety.
Why Does Holding a Sneeze Cause Problems?
A sneeze is your body's natural way of expelling irritants from your nose and airways. The force behind it is considerable, and when you hold it back, that force can be redirected in harmful ways. For instance:
- The pressure from a sneeze is usually channeled through the nasal passages.
- When this passage is blocked, pressure can build up in other areas of your head.
- This increase of pressure can cause ruptures.
What To Do Instead of Holding a Sneeze
- It's best to allow a sneeze to happen. If you must suppress it, doing so gently is better than trying to block it entirely.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your inner elbow to reduce the spread of germs.
- Consider why you are sneezing in the first place - is it allergies, dust, or a cold? You can address that underlying cause.
| Risk | Description | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Ruptured Eardrum | Pressure can cause a tear in the eardrum. | Rare |
| Ruptured Blood Vessels | Small blood vessels in the eye or nose may break. | Rare |
| Throat/Neck Pain | Muscles can be strained when holding back the sneeze. | Rare |
| Brain Aneurysm Rupture | Potentially dangerous but extremely rare event due to pressure increase. | Very Rare |
| Rib Fractures | In very rare cases and in people with brittle bones. | Very Rare |
