I’m pretty sure it’s super common to sneeze in groups of 2, one right after the other. Sure I’ve gone on 3+ sneeze sprees, or just sneezed once and I’m done… but it’s usually two, like most everyone else. What is the biological reason for this, if there is one?
In: Biology
I don’t have an explanation for you, but I almost exclusively sneeze only once per sneeze session.
Would it have anything to do with having two nostrils?
To me this sounds more like a case of selective attention and confirmation bias. Since you are expecting it to happen you always notice when it does.
1 sneeze = you are going to get sick.
2 sneezes = you are ok.
3 sneezes or more = 50/50.
Sneezing is typically your body trying to expunge foreign particles and irritants (e.g. pollen or dust mites) from your sinus cavities. It is an explosive event in order to eject mucosal droplets to a far enough distance that you won’t breathe in the contaminant again. But since this is imperfect, you sometimes do re-inhale some of the irritants triggering the sneeze response again.
Try this next time – sneeze in one direction and then move away immediately from that direction. You’ll likely find you only sneeze once.
Latest Answers