Why do we sneeze?
To function well, our respiratory system needs to be clean, at the right temperature and humidity level. To ensure this, it has two cleansing tools: the immune system, which fights against microbes and viruses by mobilizing specialized cells, and the mucociliary treadmill.
This self-cleaning filter lines the entire respiratory tract. It frees them from dust and other undesirables by enveloping them in mucus and then expelling them more easily out of the respiratory circuit by “rolling” them on the vibrating eyelashes. This is where sneezing comes into play. Like coughing and blowing your nose, it’s a way to clear mucus and clear your airways.
However annoying, repeated sneezes during a cold or allergic rhinitis therefore have all their usefulness: they protect the body from an overly massive invasion of viruses and allergens.
How about sneezing for no reason?
According to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, they are important too. Published in August 2012, their work shows that these sudden exhalations through the nose help maintain the hair cells that purify inhaled air. As if they shouldn’t be left too much rest so as not to lose their good habits.
Occasional sneezes therefore ensure optimal functioning of all these fine machines.
Should we hold back?
However, whether you’re sick or not, sneezing can ruin a meeting or movie session. And the temptation to try to hold them back is sometimes great. But be careful. Blocking the nose can produce excessive pressure that can damage the inner ear and cause pain or even perforation of the eardrum.
Therefore, in case of too frequent and exhausting sneezing, it is better to treat the cause of the problem: wash your nose regularly in case of a cold, take an antihistamine in case of an allergy…
