Sneezing is a natural bodily function that helps to expel irritants from the nasal passages. However, there are situations where we might try to suppress or hold in a sneeze, either due to social etiquette or workplace restrictions.

While holding in a sneeze every now and then may not cause serious harm, repeatedly holding in sneezes or forcefully trying to stop them can lead to several risks and complications. In this article, we will explore these risks in detail.

1. Sinus Damage

When you hold in a sneeze, the pressure that builds up in the nasal cavity can potentially cause damage to the sinuses. The force of a sneeze is meant to expel air and any irritants from your body.

By holding it in, the pressure has to go somewhere, and it often redirects towards the sinuses, which can result in inflammation, pain, and even sinusitis.

2. Ear Infections

Similar to sinus damage, holding in a sneeze can also lead to ear-related complications. The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, allowing the equalization of pressure.

When you hold in a sneeze, the pressure that would have been released through the nose and mouth is forced into the Eustachian tubes, causing fluid build-up, ear pain, and potentially leading to ear infections.

3. Ruptured Eardrum

In extreme cases, holding in a forceful sneeze can even lead to a ruptured eardrum. The sudden increase in pressure can cause the delicate membrane of the eardrum to burst, resulting in hearing loss, pain, and possible complications.

4. Eye Injuries

When sneezing, the eyes naturally close as a protective reflex. Holding in a sneeze interrupts this reflex and can potentially cause eye-related injuries.

The force generated by a sneeze is quite powerful, and suppressing it can force the pressure towards the eyes. This pressure can potentially cause damage to the blood vessels and delicate tissues in and around the eyes, leading to redness, eyelid swelling, and even temporary vision problems.

5. Nasal Irritation

By holding in a sneeze, you are essentially trapping the irritants, such as dust, pollen, or bacteria, inside the nasal passages.

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This can lead to prolonged exposure to these irritants, resulting in nasal congestion, irritation, and potentially even sinus infections.

6. Aneurysm

In rare cases, holding in a sneeze with excessive force can lead to the formation or rupture of an aneurysm. An aneurysm is an abnormal and potentially dangerous enlargement of a blood vessel.

The sudden and significant pressure build-up from suppressing a sneeze can potentially trigger the rupture of an existing aneurysm or cause a new one to develop.

7. Germs and Disease

Sneezes are considered one of the primary ways germs and diseases spread. By trying to hold in a sneeze, you inadvertently increase the chances of germs being released into the surrounding environment when the pressure finds another route of escape.

This can potentially lead to the spread of infections, especially in crowded places.

8. Back and Neck Strain

When you forcefully hold in a sneeze, you may inadvertently strain your back and neck muscles in an attempt to contain the force. This can lead to muscle tension, pain, and discomfort.

9. Psychological Effects

Continually suppressing or holding in sneezes can have psychological effects as well. It can create feelings of discomfort, frustration, and even anxiety as the natural urge to sneeze is denied.

Over time, this can impact an individual’s mental well-being and may lead to stress-related symptoms.

While not a direct risk to physical health, repeatedly holding in or forcefully stopping sneezes can cause social awkwardness. Sneezing, when done hygienically by covering the mouth and nose, is a normal bodily function.

Suppressing it unnecessarily on a regular basis can lead to discomfort in social situations and potential difficulties in social interactions.