Sneezing is a common and slightly annoying occurrence that we have all experienced at some point. The buildup to a sneeze can happen without the actual sneeze occurring, leaving one with an irritating sensation. But is it possible to make yourself sneeze on command? Doctors explain that a sneeze is an involuntary, forceful, explosive flow of air through the nose and mouth, caused by irritation of the mucous membranes. The trigeminal nerve sends a message to the brain, triggering the body to sneeze and clear the nose and throat passages. Sneezing involves a series of events, including pulling in air, closing the vocal cords, building up pressure, and then suddenly releasing the air at a high speed.
Various triggers can cause sneezing, such as allergens, infections, chemicals, fumes, air pollution, perfumes, cologne, spicy food, stress, strong emotions, and bright light. Photic sneeze reflex is an inherited genetic trait that affects about 25–30% of the population and causes sneezing when exposed to bright light. Although sneezing can be inconvenient, it is usually not a sign of a serious health problem. Sneezing is actually good for you, as it helps remove irritants, allergens, pathogens, or particles in the nose and throat that the body wants to clear out. However, excessive or forceful sneezing over time can lead to potential risks, such as a ruptured eardrum, ear infections, broken blood vessels in the eye, or muscle strain.
While sneezing typically occurs spontaneously, it is possible to make yourself sneeze on command. Techniques to stimulate the trigeminal nerve and trigger a sneeze include tickling your nose, massaging your nose, pulling on a nose hair, tweezing your eyebrows, smelling something strong, or looking up at bright light. These methods can help you induce a sneeze if you feel like you need to sneeze but can’t. It is essential to follow the proper way to sneeze to protect yourself and others. Avoid holding in a sneeze or closing the nose or mouth, as this can rapidly increase the pressure and cause potential harm. When sneezing, cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow, discard the tissue, and wash your hands afterward to prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
If you find that you are unable to sneeze consistently or are experiencing other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Chronic nasal irritation and congestion can affect the sneezing reflex, and neurological problems may cause sneezing abnormalities. Excessive sneezing that disrupts your life may also warrant a visit to the doctor. Sneezing can be a symptom of various conditions, from allergies to viral infections, and a healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Remember that sneezing is a natural and beneficial reflex that helps protect our airways and lungs.
