You’ve been blowing your nose all wrong and it’s damaging! See the expert’s proper technique inside

Ah, the humble act of blowing one's nose – it's as natural as breathing, right? Well, it turns out that many of us have been doing it incorrectly, and the consequences are nothing to sneeze at.

We're all about embracing the golden years with grace, wisdom, and good health. So, let's dive into the sniffles and snuffles of proper nose-blowing etiquette.



Dr. Zachary Rubin, a pediatrician with a specialty in allergy and immunology, has become an online sensation, sharing medical insights with his 1.6 million followers.

In a viral video, he warns against the common practice of the forceful, double-nostril nose blow. With over 1.3 million views, it's clear that this is a hot topic.

Dr. Rubin cautions that blowing too hard can lead to a host of nasal no-nos. The increased pressure can damage delicate nasal passages, leading to nosebleeds, especially in drier climates.

But that's not all – the real trouble lies deeper within.


compressed-cold-1947995_1280.jpeg
Dr. Zachary Rubin, a social media-famous pediatrician, warns against forceful and improper nose blowing. Image source: Myriams-Fotos / Pixabay.



Our bodies are marvelously interconnected, and that includes the pathways between our nose, mouth, and ears.

Dr. Rubin explains that when we blow our noses with too much gusto, we risk pushing mucus, bacteria, and viruses into the eustachian tubes, which connect to the middle ear. This can set the stage for a painful ear infection.

Children, with their shorter eustachian tubes, are particularly vulnerable, but that doesn't mean adults are off the hook. In fact, improper nose-blowing can even lead to a ruptured eardrum.

If you ever hear a “pop” while clearing your nostrils, consider it a red flag to ease up on the pressure.



So, what's the recommended method? Dr. Rubin advises a gentler approach. Cover one nostril and softly blow into a tissue.

It should feel comfortable, not like a nasal workout. Repeat on the other side, and then wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of germs.

This technique may require a bit of patience, especially for those with chronic sinus issues who feel the need to blow hard to get relief.

However, the goal is to clear your nasal passages without causing additional problems.



The response to Dr. Rubin's advice has been mixed. Some viewers were already in the know, plugging one nostril and blowing gently.

Others, particularly those suffering from chronic sinusitis, expressed skepticism, feeling that a softer blow just doesn't cut it when congestion hits hard.

But the science is clear: Blowing your nose too forcefully can create more issues than it solves. It's a delicate balance between finding relief and protecting your health.

Key Takeaways
  • Dr. Zachary Rubin, a social media-famous pediatrician, warns against forceful and improper nose blowing, which can cause damage and increase the risk of ear infections and nosebleeds.
  • The correct method for blowing your nose involves gently blowing through one nostril at a time while covering the other, followed by hand washing to prevent germ spread.
  • Despite Dr. Rubin's advice, some internet users with chronic sinus issues claim that gentle
    blowing isn't effective for clearing their congestion.
  • Blowing one's nose too hard can lead to various complications, including ear infections and potential eardrum rupture, as the ears, nose, and mouth are interconnected.

Have you experienced complications from blowing your nose too hard? Or perhaps you've found a technique that works wonders for you? We'd love to hear your stories and tips in the comments below!
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

The GrayVine

The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & Fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's America
  5. Money Saving Hacks
  6. Offtopic / Everything else
  7. News & Politics

Latest Articles

Share With a Friend
Change Weather Zip code ×
Change Petrol Postcode×