A(caps) sneeze is a sudden, involuntary expulsion of air from the lungs through the nose and mouth. It's a reflexive response triggered by irritation to the mucous membranes lining the nasal passages and throat. Sneezing serves as a protective mechanism for the respiratory system, helping to clear irritants, allergens, or infectious particles from the nasal cavity
A sneeze can travel up to about 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) under certain conditions. When we sneeze, tiny droplets and particles can be expelled from our nose and mouth into the air. The distance these particles travel depends on various factors such as the force of the sneeze, the environment, and airflow.
Biological Process of Sneezing:
- Trigger: The sneeze reflex is typically initiated by irritation to the sensitive mucous membranes in the nose or throat. This irritation can be caused by various factors such as: Allergens (pollen, dust, pet dander)Viruses (common cold, flu)Irritants (strong odors, pepper)Foreign particles (dust, pollutants)
- Nervous System Response: When these irritants stimulate sensory receptors (nerve endings) in the nasal passages, a signal is sent to the brain's sneeze Centre, located in the medulla oblongata, at the base of the brain.
- Muscular Response: Upon receiving the signal, the brain initiates a series of muscular contractions:
- Inhalation: The chest muscles contract, and the diaphragm (a sheet of muscle beneath the lungs) moves downward, rapidly drawing air into the lungs.
- Exhalation: The sudden forceful exhalation follows as the chest and abdominal muscles contract forcefully. This rapid expulsion of air through the nose and mouth can reach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour (160 kilometer's per hour).
- Expulsion of Droplets: Along with the air, tiny droplets of fluid from the respiratory tract are expelled into the air. These droplets can vary in size, with larger droplets typically falling to the ground relatively quickly and smaller droplets remaining airborne longer.
Role of sneeze in Health: Sneezing helps to clear the nasal passages of irritants, allergens, and infectious particles. It is an important defense mechanism to protect the respiratory system from potential harm. However, sneezing can also contribute to the spread of infectious diseases if the person sneezing is infected with a virus or bacteria.
Precautions:
To prevent the spread of infectious diseases through sneezing, it's important to:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when sneezing or coughing.
- Dispose of tissues properly after use.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after sneezing or coughing.
