Is holding back a sneeze dangerous?

About this episode

Whether it's a matter of courtesy or preventing the spread of germs, it's not uncommon for people to hold back a sneeze. When this happens, the intercostal muscles contract strongly, but without the release of air if the nose is pinched or the mouth is closed. However, sneezing is a natural bodily reflex designed to expel dust, microbes, or any other irritating substances from the nasal cavity. Our respiratory system comes equipped with a filter lining the airways. Dust and allergens, for instance, are wrapped in mucus and propelled by vibratile cilia. Sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose helps expel this mixture, effectively cleansing the respiratory passages. So are you saying that sneezing is important? What kind of consequences are we talking about? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠⁠What's the best way to choose my toothpaste?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start?⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First Broadcast: 9/12/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices