We’ve all heard the old saying that your heart momentarily stops when you sneeze, but is there any truth to this common myth? In this blog, we’ll delve into the notion that does your heart stops when you sneeze during a sneeze and explore what happens in your body when you let out an “achoo.”

The Sneezing Process:

Before we get to the heart, let’s first understand the mechanics of sneezing. A sneeze is a reflex action triggered by various factors, such as irritants in your nasal passages or sudden exposure to bright light. When your body senses an irritant, it sends signals to your brain, which then sends signals back to your body to clear the irritant. This leads to a chain reaction that culminates in a sneeze.

During a sneeze, your diaphragm muscles contract, your chest muscles tighten, and the air is rapidly expelled from your lungs, often exceeding speeds of 100 miles per hour. The forceful expulsion of air is the reason for the “achoo” sound.

Heart Activity During a Sneeze:

So, what about your heart? Does it stop during a sneeze? The answer is a resounding no. Your heart continues to beat normally even when you sneeze. The notion that your heart stops during a sneeze is purely a myth.

Your heart’s rhythm is regulated by a complex electrical system, and it operates independently of the reflex responsible for sneezing. While the act of sneezing momentarily increases the pressure within your chest, it does not affect the steady beat of your heart.

The Origin of the Myth:

The myth that your heart stops during a sneeze likely arises from the sensation some people experience during a powerful or unexpected sneeze. It’s not uncommon to feel a temporary change in blood flow or a fluttering sensation in your chest during a sneeze. However, this sensation is not your heart stopping but rather a result of the abrupt pressure changes in your chest.

Is Sneezing Harmful to Your Heart?

Sneezing itself is not harmful to your heart. However, if you have an underlying heart condition, the force of a particularly strong sneeze could theoretically exacerbate symptoms or discomfort. For individuals with heart conditions, it’s essential to manage their health and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure their well-being.

In conclusion, the idea that your heart stops when you sneeze is nothing more than a persistent myth. While sneezing can create a temporary sensation in your chest, it has no impact on the steady beating of your heart. So, the next time you feel a sneeze coming on, you can rest assured that your heart will continue its rhythm, unaffected by this natural and involuntary reflex.