Holding Back Sneezes Can Harm Your Body, Experts Warn

Suppressing a sneeze, a natural bodily defense mechanism, can lead to internal injuries due to the forceful expulsion of air and pathogens from the respiratory tract. While common myths suggest extreme consequences like eyes popping out, the reality is that forcefully blocking a sneeze can cause significant damage to soft tissues and blood vessels within the body. Researchers like Kin Liu from Washington University in St. Louis explain that the intense pressure generated during a sneeze, akin to a gun firing a bullet, is meant to be released outwards. When this release is blocked by closing the nose and mouth, the pressurized air can rebound inwards, potentially harming the nasal passages, throat, sinuses, and even the eardrums, which could rupture under extreme pressure. Although occasional suppression may not cause severe harm, it is advisable to allow sneezes to occur naturally. The safest method is to use a tissue or, if unavailable, sneeze into the crook of the elbow. In situations where a full sneeze is socially difficult, such as during an interview or formal event, partially blocking the sneeze by allowing some air to escape through the mouth can mitigate the internal pressure. While it's possible to stop a sneeze just before it begins by altering breathing or applying gentle pressure to the nose or upper lip, once the process is fully initiated, it is best to let it happen naturally to avoid internal injury.