Is Holding Back a Sneeze Harmful? Insights from Family Medicine

Sneezing issues?

Hello, doctor.
I suddenly felt the urge to sneeze but held it back and didn't sneeze.
I would like to know if this could cause any issues.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/18

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! The force of suppressing a sneeze may be transmitted back into the body, and the body can generally tolerate a small amount of it.

Reply Date: 2022/02/18

More Info

Holding back a sneeze can indeed have some potential consequences, although it is not typically life-threatening. When you feel the urge to sneeze, it is your body's natural reflex to expel irritants from your nasal passages. Sneezing helps clear out allergens, dust, and other particles that may be causing irritation. However, when you suppress this reflex, several things can happen.

Firstly, the pressure that builds up in your nasal passages and sinuses can lead to discomfort. This pressure may cause pain in the face or head, particularly around the sinuses. In some cases, it can even lead to headaches. The act of holding back a sneeze can also cause the mucus to be forced back into the sinuses, which may increase the risk of sinus infections or other complications.

Moreover, there are rare but more serious risks associated with suppressing a sneeze. For instance, there have been reports of individuals experiencing ruptured eardrums due to the pressure created when they hold back a sneeze. The eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, can become affected by this pressure, leading to pain or hearing issues. Additionally, there have been cases where the pressure from holding in a sneeze has caused damage to blood vessels in the eyes or even the brain, although these occurrences are extremely rare.

In family medicine, it is generally advised to allow your body to sneeze when it needs to. If you find yourself in a situation where sneezing would be socially inappropriate, such as in a meeting or during a conversation, it is better to try to stifle the sneeze gently rather than completely suppressing it. You can do this by pinching your nose or breathing through your mouth. However, if you are in a position to do so, it is best to let the sneeze happen, ideally into a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.

If you frequently feel the urge to sneeze but find yourself holding it back, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying causes for your nasal irritation, such as allergies or infections, and recommend appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes.

In conclusion, while holding back a sneeze is not typically harmful, it can lead to discomfort and, in rare cases, more serious complications. It is generally best to allow your body to sneeze when it needs to, as this is a natural and healthy reflex. If you have concerns about your sneezing or nasal health, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide you with personalized advice and care.

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