In some people, stepping in and out of air-conditioned rooms can lead to a common cold, accompanied by symptoms such as sneezing and coughing, due to the fluctuating temperatures. With it comes the urge to blow the nose and clear congestion. But have you wondered if there is a correct way to do it? We ask because doctors advise against the regular method of blocking both nostrils and blowing, stating that it can cause long-term damage to the nasal passages. So, what really is the right way?
Dr Girish Anand M S, Consultant – ENT Surgery, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, said that blowing your nose is typically best done by gently pressing one nostril closed while exhaling through the other. This technique helps to prevent excessive pressure buildup in the sinuses, which can lead to discomfort or even injury to the nasal lining, resulting in nosebleeds.
“But when both nostrils are closed during this process, it can create a significant amount of pressure in the nasal cavities, potentially resulting in pain or causing mucus to be pushed back into the sinuses, which may lead to further complications such as sinus infections,” he told indianexpress.com.
Don’t blow your nose too often (Source: Freepik)
Timing matters, too
According to him, timing also plays a crucial role in the practice of blowing one’s nose. “Do not blow the nose when experiencing symptoms of nasal congestion, such as during a cold or allergy flare-up, as it can provide immediate relief. But, blowing your nose after exposure to irritants or allergens can help clear the nasal passages and improve breathing,” he said, further suggesting avoiding excessive or forceful blowing, as this can irritate the nasal lining and exacerbate symptoms.
What happens if you blow your nose too often?
Dr Sonali Kohli, Consultant – Dermatology at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, told indianexpress.com that allergies can cause inflammation of the nasal passageway and “when nasal passages become inflamed, people instinctively rub their noses for relief, stressing the skin”. Over time, skin loses elasticity, and repetitive rubbing exacerbates the formation of creases, she added.
The formation of these creases can cause your nasal skin to be extremely irritated and sensitive, and can appear in the form of significantly visible lines, which would even need plastic surgery to correct in very extreme cases, she said.
Dr Manoj Mishra, senior consultant ENT, Head, Neck and Cancer Surgeon at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, agreed that blowing your nose frequently can irritate the delicate lining of the nasal passages and sinuses due to the friction caused by tissues or handkerchiefs – exacerbating nasal congestion and leading to inflammation.
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“Vigorous nose blowing can force nasal fluids back into the sinuses, potentially leading to increased sinus pressure and increased sinusitis symptoms,” he said,
Use saline solutions to help moisten the nasal passages and thin mucus, making it easier to expel with gentle blowing, he concluded
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
