In the summer, allergies are often to blame for sneezing, but you might be surprised how complex this bodily function can be. Outside of its role in clearing irritants, sneezing unveils fascinating insights into our respiratory system’s workings. Here we will discover some of the more obscure facets of this common reflex.
1. Sneezes: nature’s nasal reset button
Sneezing isn’t simply a reflex; it’s a vital mechanism by which our bodies reset the performance of our noses. Think about how you sometimes need a complete shutdown and restart to get your computer functioning efficiently. Sneezing clears out irritants and gets your nasal passage working like a well-oiled machine again.
2. Multiple sneezes: doesn’t necessarily mean you’re sick
When someone sneezes repeatedly, the common assumption is illness. However, multiple sneezes often indicate the body’s effort to thoroughly clear irritants from the nasal cavity. It’s a healthy reboot, not particularly a symptom of a cold or flu.
3. Sneezing and sleep: a rare combination
Sneezing is a reflexive response induced by various stimuli. Surprisingly, sneezing seldom happens during sleep because of relaxed nerves. Daytime hours typically see more sneezing as nasal passages actively clear. Even though, in rare situations, outside stimuli like pepper can induce sneezing even during sleep.
4. Debunking the myth: your heart doesn’t stop
It’s a popular myth that your heart stops when you sneeze. The experience of a skipped heartbeat frequently felt during a sneeze is merely a short-term alteration in blood flow and pressure. There’s no need to be worried that your heart has stopped when you sneeze.
5. Sunlight’s sneeze induction: the photic reflex
Some people, when exposed to bright light, will have a sneezing reflex. About one-fourth of the population, when subjected to bright light, will experience what’s known as a photic sneeze reflex. This phenomenon highlights the intricate nature of sneeze triggers beyond allergens like pollen.
Successfully managing sneezing
Sneezing helps clear out irritants but it also plays a big role in the spread of germs. Mucus can travel as far as five feet from a sneeze, so it’s important to practice appropriate sneezing etiquette. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze and keep your hands sanitized in order to decrease the spread of germs.
When sneezing calls for a specialist
Call us for a consultation if you have worries about your sinus health, allergies, or persistent sneezing.