You can induce a sneeze to clear your nose by stimulating your nasal passages using a variety of methods.
Methods to Induce Sneezing
Here are a few methods you can use to trigger a sneeze, according to the reference:
- Wiggle a tissue in your nose: Gently inserting and wiggling a tissue can irritate the nasal passages enough to induce a sneeze.
- Look at a bright light: Looking up at a bright light source can trigger the photic sneeze reflex in some individuals.
- Sniff a spice: Inhaling spices like pepper can irritate the nasal lining and cause you to sneeze.
- Tweeze your brows: Plucking hairs from your eyebrows may stimulate nerve endings that trigger a sneeze.
- Pluck a nose hair: Similarly, plucking a nose hair can irritate the nasal passages.
- Massage the roof of your mouth with your tongue: Applying pressure to the roof of your mouth can sometimes induce a sneeze.
- Note: The reference also notes that it is possible to sneeze on command, whether you already feel a prickling sensation or not.
How These Methods Work
These methods work by stimulating the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for the sneeze reflex. Irritating the nasal passages, the nerve endings around the face, or by causing a photic reaction can all trigger the sneeze reflex.
Why Sneeze?
Sneezing is a natural bodily function that helps expel irritants and mucus from the nose. By triggering a sneeze, you can help clear out your nasal passages and feel relief from congestion.
