Think a Sneeze Isn't Dangerous? Think Again

Yet the Worst Damage Can Come from the Sneeze You Suppress

There's more danger possible as well. People have not only accidentally severely bitten their tongues during such an episode, they've severed parts of their tongues as well. Just because of the bacteria and organisms present in even the cleanest mouths can make the simple act of biting a chunk out of an inner cheek turn into a long recovery that must be watched carefully for infection.

More than a few have broken teeth by the force with which your upper and lower jaw can snap shut in the process. Even ruptures within the throat may occur or a esophagus can be damaged.

Then there is the issue of a relatively rare yet still possible effect of a repressed sneeze or anything else that causes injury to the face: facial emphysema, a condition seen both in adults and children. Potentially deadly because it can restrict air supply, facial emphysema - either from a repressed sneeze, anesthesia, or some dental work - can create deep air spaces in the face and neck, sometimes extending as far as into the lungs. Signs are typically facial and/or neck swelling and discomfort and medical treatment should be sought immediately.

So give a sneeze the respect - and trajectory - it deserves: carry around a quickly accessible pocket pack of tissues and sneeze away! The face and head you protect can be your very own.