If you stifle a sneeze, you run the real risk of damaging your eardrums or sinuses or even getting an ear infection. The exhaled air from a sneeze exits through the nose and mouth at speeds of about 100 miles per hour. When these exits are closed, a sneeze has nowhere else to go but into the “Eustachian” tube (which connects the nasal passages to the middle ear) and on to the eardrum. Consequently, it is possible that a very strong sneeze could propel air into the eardrum forcefully enough to rupture it. Fortunately, it is more difficult to pinch the nose closed and shut the mouth during a sneeze than one might imagine. Still, it pays to be careful.
We bring you this column on hearing healthcare in order to better educate our friends here in Concord on the importance and benefits of taking care of their hearing, thus enhancing their quality of life. If you are having trouble hearing, or if a family member seems to be experiencing hearing difficulties, why not call us at BETTER HEARING CENTER? We offer comprehensive services by a skilled and specially trained certified clinical audiologist including hearing tests and evaluations, individualized hearing instrument fittings, and follow-up care. Most insurance’s accepted for hearing evaluations. We are New Hampshire’s premier hearing care provider.
P.S. Stifling a sneeze carries the possibility of pushing infected mucus through the Eustachian tube and back into the middle ear, and possibly developing into an infection.
