What would happen if I pinch my nose while I sneeze?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of pinching one's nose while sneezing, particularly in the context of having an ear infection. Participants explore the theoretical implications of this action on the Eustachian tube and ear pressure, as well as potential risks associated with nasal infections.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that pinching the nose while sneezing can lead to increased pressure in the ears, as the air is redirected through the Eustachian tube instead of exiting through the nose.
  • Another participant warns against keeping the mouth closed while pinching the nose, suggesting it could lead to dangerous pressure buildup.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential for air and other contents to be forced into the middle ear, which could exacerbate an existing ear infection.
  • It is mentioned that while the pressure increase in the ear cavity is usually temporary, it can be uncomfortable or painful.
  • A participant references a common practice of equalizing pressure in the ears during rapid altitude changes, noting similar risks involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the safety and implications of pinching the nose while sneezing, with no consensus reached on the best course of action, especially in the context of an ear infection.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the potential risks associated with nasal infections and the mechanics of pressure changes in the ear, but do not resolve the uncertainties surrounding the effects of this action.

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TL;DR
I'm curious what would happen if I pinch my nose while I sneeze
hey everyone,

I currently have an ear infection. I'm watching to see if it gets better and it seems like yesterday was the worst of it. Today it's better: I can completely clinch my jaw with minimal pain. I think I'll be ok by Tuesday, but I'm curious about something.

I'm curious what would happen if I pinch my nose while I sneeze, forcing the air through the Eustachian tube? From what I understand, the Eustachian is supposed to relieve air pressure in the ear and drain fluids to the nasal cavity. Normally when I pinch my nose when I sneeze, I get a lot of pressure in my ears because the Eustachian would carry the air that would have gone through my nose to the middle ear. Now that I have an air infection I don't want to risk more injury, but I'm curious as to what would theoretically happen.

Thanks!
 
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pctopgs said:
I'm curious what would happen if I pinch my nose while I sneeze
PInching your nose is OK, but do NOT keep your mouth closed. You would blow your head off !
 
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The pressure has to be released somewhere and it likely won't be an optimal or designed area.
 
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pctopgs said:
Now that I have an air infection I don't want to risk more injury
Wise...

pctopgs said:
I'm curious as to what would theoretically happen.
To do that is advised against in case of any nasal infection (and in general, in any case) since it may send not just air but 'stuff' towards your middle ear, so easy to make an ear infection from a nasal one.
It's result is a slightly higher pressure in the ear cavity, usually relieved shortly after the 'event' by natural means.
Also quite inconvenient, by the way. Sometimes painful too.

Though forcing air through the Eustachian tube (well, not by sneezing) and make the sync of internal and external pressure easyer during rapid descent/ascent is a common practice (with similar dangers, of course).
 
Last edited:
There is an old joke about how to tell if someone is wearing panty hose: their ankles puff when they sneeze....

ok maybe it wasn't sneeze...
 
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