Natural Ways to Stop Sneezing
Sneezing is a reflex your body uses to expel irritants like dust, pollen, and pet dander. It’s semi-autonomous, meaning while you can delay a sneeze, stopping it completely is tough. Below are natural way's you can manage sneezing.
Common Sneezing Triggers
- Dust, pollen, mold, pet dander
- Bright lights
- Perfume, spicy foods, black pepper
- Common cold viruses
How to Reduce Sneezing
- Identify Your Triggers
Understanding what causes your sneezing is key. If you're unsure, allergy testing may help pinpoint specific irritants. - Treat Your Allergies
If allergies are to blame, you may experience sneezing fits. OTC antihistamines like Zyrtec, Allegra, or Claritin, and nasal sprays like Flonase, can relieve symptoms. Consult a doctor if stronger treatment is needed. - Avoid Environmental Hazards
Some workplaces expose you to dust or airborne particles like chemicals or metals, which can irritate your nose. Wear protective gear and reduce dust exposure with proper ventilation. - Protect Against Light Sensitivity
Photic sneezing, triggered by bright light, affects about one-third of people. Wearing polarized sunglasses can help. - Watch Your Meal Size
Sneezing after eating large meals, can be avoided by eating smaller portions and chewing slowly.
Natural Remedies to Stop Sneezing
Avoid Looking Directly at Bright Lights
Sudden exposure to bright light, especially sunlight (and even a bright lamp in the house), can trigger sneezing in some people. About one-third of the population experiences this reaction, known as photic sneezing, which often runs in families. To prevent this, wear polarized sunglasses whenever you're outside to protect your eyes and reduce the chance of sneezing.
Say a Word
Distract yourself by saying something like "pickles" or "elephant" or "snuffleupagus" before sneezing. This distracts your brain and temporarily interrupts the sneeze reflex. This brief diversion can sometimes stop the sneeze before it happens. Although many people believe in this method, there's no strong scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
Use Your Tongue
Using your tongue to tickle the roof of your mouth can interrupt the sneeze reflex and stop the urge to sneeze. Pressing your tongue firmly against your front teeth may also help delay the sneeze. Do this for about 10 seconds to see if this will delay or stop the sneeze altogether.
Blow Your Nose
Blowing your nose helps clear out irritants from your nasal passages that trigger the sneeze reflex. By removing these particles, you can deactivate the urge to sneeze before it happens.
Pinch Your Nose
Try pinching your nostrils or the top of your nose just under your eyebrows to delay sneezing. Pinching your nose can help stop a sneeze by applying pressure to the nasal passages, which interrupts the signals triggering the sneeze reflex. This physical action disrupts the body's urge to complete the sneeze.
Pinche Your Upper Lip
Pinching your upper lip helps stop a sneeze by stimulating the nerves around the area, which can interfere with the reflex that triggers sneezing. This small distraction may prevent the sneeze from fully developing. Gently pinch, or bunch together, the upper lip and push it up toward your nostrils.
Consider Allergy Shots
For severe allergies, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may help reduce sensitivity over time.
Healthy Habits: Cover a Sneeze to Avoid Spreading Germs
If you cannot capture the sneeze and keep it away - here is the proper way to sneeze and reduce the spread of germs:
- Cover your nose and mouth: Use a tissue to completely cover your nose and mouth when sneezing. If a tissue isn't available, sneeze into your elbow or upper arm, not your hands.
- Dispose of the tissue: Immediately throw the used tissue into a trash bin to prevent the spread of germs.
- Wash your hands: After sneezing, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap isn't available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
By following these steps, you can help prevent the spread of germs to others.
Bottom Line
Sneezing is a natural defense, but if it becomes excessive, it’s rarely a sign of something serious. By managing your triggers and trying these simple tricks, you can minimize sneezing without relying solely on medication.
