The doctor warned about the danger of restraining sneezing

Attempts to restrain sneezing create dangerous internal pressure that can lead to various injuries and pathologies. Irina Volgina, Associate Professor of the Department of Therapy at the Medical Faculty of the State University of Education, told Izvestia on June 2 about the serious consequences that suppression of the sneezing reflex can lead to.

"Sneezing is a response to hyperexpression of the receptors, reflexive exhalation through the nose. The whole body gathers strength for this active exhalation. It involves the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and many others. And when we suppress this reflex, the only question is where the pressure will go," the expert explained.

Earlier, the media reported that in Karelia, a man tore his throat trying not to sneeze. The 34-year-old patient allegedly complained of acute pain when swallowing and changes in his voice. Later, he discovered that his neck was swollen. It turned out that as a result of restraining sneezing, the man's esophagus ruptured.

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Volgina listed other possible complications: from rupture of the eardrum and hemorrhages in various organs to the formation of hernias of the esophagus, renal hernias and even rupture of the bladder.

According to her, the pressure finds a way out in any weak spot that a person has. If there are problems with the ear, otitis media or rupture of the eardrum may occur. If there are problems with the vessels, they are weak or have high blood pressure, the vessel may rupture. In this case, a weak vessel can be anywhere: in the head, in the mouth, in the abdominal cavity, in the eye — hemorrhage occurs.

It should be borne in mind that sneezing is particularly dangerous for people with congenital pathologies of connective tissue and elderly patients whose age-related changes reduce the strength of tissues.

"In young people, joint hypermobility, flat feet, or abnormalities in the development of internal organs may indicate problems with connective tissue," the doctor noted.

Volgina stressed that the main alarming symptom after an unsuccessful suppression of sneezing is a sharp persistent pain. Other signs of damage may include hemorrhages in the eye or the sudden appearance of an external hernia.

"You can't hold back when sneezing. You can cover your face with a handkerchief or your hands, or go out to some safe, deserted place," the specialist concluded.

On May 12, allergist-immunologist Ella Churyukina, in an interview with Izvestia, said that allergy sufferers should follow preventive measures during the period of hay fever — avoid walking in the morning in dry and windy weather, close the windows of the house, wear protective equipment and take a shower upon returning home.