Everyone must have experienced sneezing. Whether it's relaxing or being focused on something, suspected or not, sneezing can just happen. So, how can sneezing happen? What are the triggers? Let's look at the full explanation of the mechanisms of sneezing and the many interesting facts that cover it the following.
Mechanism of Sneezing,
Sneezing is the body's natural mechanism in clearing the nose from the entry of foreign particles. When foreign particles such as dust, dirt, pollen or other irritants enter the nose, the foreign particles will interact with the fine hair and mucous membranes that envelop the nasal cavity.
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At that moment, sneezing stimulation will arise. The receptor in the nasal lining sends the impulse through the fifth cranial nerve to the sneezing center of the medulla oblongata as a signal that something must be removed from the respiratory tract. The body immediately prepare for a contraction. The esophagus and the eyes are forced to close, the tongue moves to the roof of the mouth and the chest muscles as well as the diaphragm in the stomach will strengthen. In the end the air, saliva and mucus will come out of the nose as well as the mouth, and there is a natural reflex we call sneezing. Sneezing is also a form of the body's defense activity against bacteria or viruses that attack the disease. That is why when a person is exposed to the flu for example, he will automatically sneeze several times to remove bacteria or viruses from the respiratory tract. In addition, environmental factors such as changes in temperature, pollution, drugs and certain cosmetic products can also trigger sneezing. Although the mechanism of sneezing is generally the same in every person, but the way everyone sneezes can vary.
Why Do We Close Our Eyes When Sneezing?
The nerves present in the nose and eye are related. The closing of the eyes when sneezing aims to protect the tear ducts and blood capillaries so as not to be contaminated by foreign particles, bacteria or viruses coming out of the nasal membrane. That is the reason behind closing our eyes when sneezing.
Is Sneezing Can Be a Serious Problem?
Basically, sneezing is a natural reflex of the body is very normal and not to worry about. However, in certain conditions, such as nosebleeds or migraines, the frequency of sneezing will be at risk of aggravating both conditions.
In addition, sneezing occurring chronically or repeatedly over a long period of time, can be a sign of an underlying health disorder. For example, such as allergic rhinitis, if not controlled properly, it can trigger other infections such as sinusitis, nasal polyp or ear infections. Therefore, it is better to immediately see a doctor if sneezing is experienced too often or chronic to prevent serious problems that could arise. It is important to never withhold sneezing under any circumstances. Why? because these actions can cause adverse health effects. Pinching your nose or closing your mouth to block sneezing can interfere with blood flow to the brain. Causes blood vessels and nervous tissue to be depressed so that it can cause headaches, damage to the eardrum to the destruction of blood vessels. Bad habits of sneezing will also force the bacteria back into the nasal cavity and ear canal, so it is not likely to trigger the occurrence of infection.
Facts About Sneezing
There are some interesting facts about sneezing to know, including:
1.Sneezing speed can reach 160 kilometers per hour.
2.Most people do not realize that when a sneeze the heartbeat will slow down naturally.
3.In a sneeze there are at least 40,000 water grains containing hundreds of thousands of germs.
4.When sleeping we will not be able to experience sneezing because the muscles of the eyes and nose are paralyzed by the brain.
5.In some people, sneezing can be triggered by orgasm and sunlight.
No matter when it is, sneezing can just happen because it is a natural body mechanism that should be grateful. Remember, never hold it because it can be bad for health. Even so, keep in mind courtesy or norm when sneezing.