The Dangers of Holding Back a Sneeze: A Life-Threatening Incident in the UK

A recent incident in the UK has revealed the potential dangers of suppressing a sneeze. A healthy 30-year-old man experienced a life-threatening situation when he pinched his nose and closed his mouth while driving, resulting in a tear in his trachea. This unprecedented case, documented in the BMJ Case Reports journal, highlights the risks associated with holding back sneezes. Medical professionals warn that this action can significantly increase pressure in the respiratory tract, leading to severe complications. Fortunately, the man recovered, but the incident serves as a crucial reminder to never suppress a sneeze.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 9, 2026, 07:03 IST

A Shocking Incident

In our daily lives, we often overlook minor occurrences. For instance, when we feel a sneeze coming on in the presence of others, we might pinch our nose or close our mouth to suppress it, thinking it won't lead to any issues. However, a recent incident involving a British man has highlighted that holding back a sneeze can indeed be fatal.

While driving, this individual attempted to stifle a sneeze, which resulted in a tear in his throat, allowing air to enter his lungs and putting his life at risk. This case marks the first of its kind documented in the BMJ Case Reports journal. Let's delve into the details of this alarming event and the warnings issued by medical professionals.

A Close Call with Death
This incident occurred in 2023 involving a healthy 30-year-old man in the UK. While driving, he began to sneeze due to allergies. Out of embarrassment or fear, he pinched his nose and closed his mouth. Although this stopped the sneeze, he soon experienced severe pain in his throat, feeling as if something had ruptured inside. Breathing became difficult, and his neck swelled. Upon arriving at the hospital, a CT scan revealed a 2×2 millimeter hole in his trachea (windpipe), causing air to accumulate between his chest and lungs (pneumomediastinum), which could have been life-threatening.

The First Documented Case
Dr. Rasads Misirovs, the lead author, expressed surprise at the findings, stating, "We have never encountered such a case before." Medical experts explained that suppressing a sneeze can increase pressure in the upper respiratory tract by 5 to 24 times the normal level. According to the BMJ report, this pressure can tear the trachea. In this case, the pressure surged to 20 times higher than normal, resulting in a small tear. If it had been larger, it could have led to infection, bleeding, or even death due to suffocation. The patient was given pain relief and monitored for 48 hours. Fortunately, the tear healed on its own within five weeks. However, doctors have since warned against pinching the nose and closing the mouth to suppress sneezes, as it can lead to tracheal perforation.