Doctors are warning against stifling sneezes after a man in the UK tore his throat by pinching his nose and closing his mouth to suppress a sneeze. The increased pressure in the upper airways during a stifled sneeze can lead to rare and potentially life-threatening conditions such as tracheal perforation. Sneezing helps protect the body from allergens, germs, and irritants, and doctors advise covering the face with a hand or the inner side of the elbow to prevent the spread of irritants to others.
Doctors are warning against stifling sneezes after a man in Scotland tore a hole in his throat while attempting to suppress a sneeze while driving. The man experienced shooting neck pain and was diagnosed with a spontaneous tracheal perforation. CT scans revealed the torn windpipe. The case, reported in BMJ Case Reports, was described as a rare and potentially life-threatening complication. Experts advise letting sneezes out naturally to prevent such injuries and recommend covering the face with a hand or inner side of the elbow to prevent the spread of irritants.
Doctors in Dundee have issued a warning after a man tore a 2mm hole in his throat while trying to stifle a sneeze. The man, who was driving at the time, held his nose and closed his mouth to concentrate on the road, but experienced excruciating pain. CT scans revealed a tear in his windpipe caused by increased pressure from closing the airways during the sneeze. The tear healed within five weeks, but doctors advise against stifling sneezes to prevent tracheal perforation.
A British man was hospitalized after holding in a sneeze and blowing a hole in his throat. The man experienced a popping sensation and swelling in his neck after attempting to halt a forceful sneeze by pinching his nose and closing his mouth. Doctors discovered streaks of trapped air in his throat tissue, resulting in a self-inflicted throat rupture. Fortunately, the man recovered after receiving treatment with a feeding tube and antibiotics. The case serves as a reminder to catch, bin, and kill sneezes to avoid potential health risks.
