Why Do We Sneeze 3 Times?
We don't always sneeze three times, but when we do, it's often a three-step process to effectively clear irritants from the nasal passages.
According to Dr. Josephson, a sinus specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital, a series of three sneezes can be explained as a sequential action:
- Sneeze 1: Loosens the irritant.
- Sneeze 2: Moves the irritant towards the front of the nose.
- Sneeze 3: Expels the irritant from the nose.
This is supported by multiple sources, which describe the multi-sneeze as a three-step process designed to efficiently remove irritants from your nasal passages. These irritants could be anything from pollen and dust to viral particles or other foreign bodies.
Other Perspectives on Multiple Sneezes
While the three-step process offers a plausible biological explanation, cultural beliefs and superstitions around multiple sneezes also exist. Some cultures associate the number of sneezes with omens or superstitions, completely separate from the physiological process. For example, some believe three sneezes signify that someone is thinking of you. These beliefs are not scientifically supported and are based on cultural traditions and folklore.
Additionally, the number of sneezes can vary depending on the irritant and individual sensitivities. Some people may sneeze only once, while others might experience a longer series. The phenomenon of photic sneeze reflex, where bright light triggers sneezing, can also lead to multiple sneezes, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
Conclusion
The most likely reason for a series of three sneezes is the body's efficient mechanism for clearing irritants from the nasal passages—a three-step process to loosen, move, and expel the irritant. However, cultural beliefs and individual variations also play a role in the perceived frequency of multiple sneezes.
