What Happens If You Hold in a Sneeze

5. Throat Damage: A Silent Threat

The throat can also suffer damage from suppressed sneezes. The forceful redirection of air can cause a rupture in the pharynx, the membrane-lined cavity behind the nose and mouth. This can lead to a condition known as subcutaneous emphysema, where air escapes into the tissues of the neck and chest, causing swelling and discomfort. In severe cases, it may require medical intervention to alleviate the symptoms. This potential consequence of stifling a sneeze highlights the need to allow our bodies to expel air naturally and avoid unnecessary harm to our throat structures.

6. Lung Injury: Breathing Under Pressure

Suppressing a sneeze can also pose risks to lung health. The sudden increase in internal pressure can cause alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs, to burst, leading to a condition called pneumothorax, where air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall. This can result in a collapsed lung, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Although this outcome is rare, it underscores the importance of understanding how our actions can inadvertently impact vital organs like the lungs and reinforces the value of allowing natural reflexes to occur.