How forceful nose blowing can cause serious health issues

In Chicago, pediatric allergist Dr. Zachary Rubin has highlighted the dangers associated with traditional nose blowing techniques during a period when colds and flu are prevalent. His guidance, shared with his 487,000 Instagram followers, warns that forcefully blowing your nose can lead to various health complications, including nosebleeds and ear infections. This activity exerts excessive pressure on the nasal passages and may push viruses and bacteria deeper into the respiratory system, increasing the risk of serious conditions. Dr. Rubin emphasizes the importance of clearing one nostril at a time in a gentle manner to avoid unnecessary strain on delicate sinus tissue. The warnings extend beyond simple inconvenience; they pinpoint specific medical risks. Medics indicate that powerful nasal blasts can disrupt the pressure behind the eardrum, potentially leading to sharp pain and, in rare cases, ruptured eardrums. Furthermore, overexerting can even create fractures in critical bones around the sinuses and eye socket. This stance is supported by Dr. Carl Philpott, a professor at the University of East Anglia, who corroborates that such injuries, while uncommon, can occur due to extreme pressure changes. During the winter, the common cold is exacerbated by allergies and other respiratory ailments, which often contribute to nasal congestion. Dr. Rubin provides alternative methods for managing this congestion without resorting to forceful nose blowing. He suggests utilizing decongestant sprays available over the counter and steam inhalation as effective remedies to alleviate symptoms while preventing potential injuries or infections. In his approach, he stresses hygiene, advising individuals to wash their hands after nose blowing to limit the transmission of pathogens. In essence, Dr. Rubin’s insights serve as a crucial reminder during a season characterized by the sniffles and sneezes. By promoting educated practices for managing nasal congestion, he aims to reduce the occurrence of avoidable health complications. Health professionals encourage a gentle approach to nose blowing, echoing the sentiment that less can indeed be more in maintaining respiratory health during cold and flu season.