Sneezing is a common bodily function, typically occurring once or twice daily, or more frequently during colds or allergy flare-ups. When irritants like dust or pollen enter the nose, the body responds by forcefully expelling air to clear the nasal passages. While seemingly harmless, suppressing this reflex can pose certain health risks.

Holding Back a Sneeze Landed Man in Hospital

In the United Kingdom, a man in his thirties sought emergency medical attention for severe neck swelling that limited his movement. the cause? He had suppressed a sneeze by pinching his nose and keeping his mouth shut while driving during a bout of hay fever.

A scan revealed a 2-millimeter tear in his trachea, specifically between the C3 and C4 vertebrae. Air had infiltrated the surrounding tissues, leading to subcutaneous emphysema. Even though he avoided surgery, the man was hospitalized for two days for observation, restricted from eating on the first day, and discharged with medication and a prohibition against physical exertion. His injury fully healed after five weeks.

Science reminds us that sneezing generates a pression extremely high, sometimes 20 times higher than that of natural sneeze, when it is retained.

The Dangers of Suppressing a Sneeze

While the case above is a rare instance of tracheal rupture due to stifled sneezing, other incidents highlight the potential dangers of this reflex.

the Conversation reported a case in Florida where a man’s intestines protruded from his abdomen after sneezing, due to an incompletely healed post-operative wound. He required another emergency surgery.

Research indicates that suppressing a sneeze can generate pressure up to 20 times greater than a normal sneeze, as demonstrated in a study published in the American Journal of Rhinology & allergy. This elevated pressure can lead to ruptured eardrums, brain hemorrhages, pulmonary hernias, and even bone fractures.

While such occurrences are uncommon,it’s advisable to avoid suppressing this natural reflex. Sneezing serves as a vital defense mechanism. If discretion is needed,use a handkerchief,but avoid simultaneously blocking your nose and mouth to prevent potential complications.