Sneezing is a natural defensive reflex that helps the body expel irritants from the nose or throat, such as dust, viruses, or other foreign substances, triggered by stimulation of the brain’s sneezing center. Sneezes can vary in type. Silent sneezing is often observed in shy individuals who wish to avoid drawing attention. Loud or forceful sneezes typically occur when the mouth or nose is not properly covered. Frequent sneezing may indicate an allergic reaction or an underlying illness. It is always best to practice “professional sneezing”, which is sneezing in a socially considerate manner while following health guidelines.
According to medical advice, it is best to sneeze naturally, away from others, while covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or using the arm instead of the hand to prevent the spread of infection. Avoid forcefully suppressing a sneeze, as this can increase pressure in the airways and head. Suppressing sneezes can cause injuries such as a torn throat, damage to the eardrum or sinuses, and in some cases, more serious conditions. Allergic sneezing, which is frequent, usually occurs without fever, is often accompanied by coughing, and worsens with exposure to specific triggers. It can happen daily or seasonally, especially during the spring.
The most concerning types of sneezing are those linked to viruses and allergies. Identifying the cause, treating it, avoiding triggers, using antihistamines, and staying well-hydrated are all important. Christina Wright wrote in The New York Times on May 22, 2024 that sneezing occurs when air is suddenly and forcefully expelled through the nose and mouth. It can be triggered by irritants in the nose or throat, environmental allergies, or viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.
Some individuals experience photic sneezing, a reflex triggered by bright light, such as sunlight. This condition is officially known as solar erythema syndrome. Regardless of the cause, the polite response in many cultures is typically “God bless you” or “May God have mercy on you.” In contrast, we rarely acknowledge the body’s other functions.
In the West, not responding to a sneeze is generally considered impolite. Saying “God bless you” has become so customary that failing to do so can create an awkward silence, which may explain why a single sneeze often draws multiple blessings from those nearby. This raises the question - Why is “God bless you” the standard response to a sneeze? Throughout history, before the advent of modern medicine in the late 19th century, life expectancy was very low. In 1900, the global average life expectancy for newborns was only 32 years.
By 2021, it had more than doubled to 71 years, during which time death came from many different causes. Infectious diseases, including the plague and influenza, could wipe out entire communities in just months. As a result, any visible sign of illness, such as sneezing, was a cause for concern, making it customary to pray for mercy for the person who sneezed. By Ahmad alsarraf email: [email protected]
