Why does one sneeze?
There are several reasons that people sneeze. Occasional sneeze is usually the by-product of small particles that get past your nose hair and irritate the sensitive lining of your nose. It is usual to feel a slight burning or tingling right before or after this type of sneeze.
When the particle or particles reach this sensitive area of your nose, histamines are triggered and are released into your system. This is what makes you feel as though you have a burning sensation in your nose. This signals your body that it needs to sneeze to expel the particles that are irritating your nose. You may not believe it, but your nose isn’t the only body part involved in a sneeze. The entire response to an allergen or particle involves your chest, face and throat muscles as well as your lungs.
How do you counter the sneeze?
The common medical remedy is to take an over the counter anti-histamine drug which does bring some relief.
For those who do not run to the medical shop at the first sneeze, there are numerous suggested ways of countering the act of sneezing, although such proposed remedies are largely based on non-scientific suggestions as derived from personal experience or grandma-remedies. Some of the techniques include the emptying of the air in the lungs that would otherwise be used in the act of sneezing through deep exhalation; holding in one's breath while counting to ten; staring up at a bright ceiling lamp; crinkling one's nose; among others.
A clean and hygiene environment at home will reduce the occurence of sneezing to a large extent.
Should You Stifle Your Sneezes?
Now that we know how infectious sneezes can be a lot of people may want to start stifling them. This is actually very dangerous and should be avoided at all times. Although sneezing can draw unwanted attention to yourself, stifling a sneeze can produce actual bodily harm.
Scientists have found that over time, stifling sneezes can cause irreparable damage to your sinuses, your inner ear and even your brain. The amount of force behind the sneeze is what makes it so dangerous to stifle. Your brain and ears have to deal with a backdraft of pressure that could possibly rupture your eardrum.
If you absolutely must stifle a sneeze, there is a better way to do it. If you feel as though you are about to sneeze try to hold your breath for a few seconds after completely emptying your lungs. This interrupts the process, giving your body no air to expel to create a sneeze. This should not be done often, but works well in an emergency.
Happy Sneezing
