Why does water burn when it goes up our nose but not when swallowed?

Question

Water is not a corrosive chemical nor harmful to human flesh, so why does it burn when inhaled?

In: Biology

Answer 1

Not a scientific explanation, but it’s most likely due to the fact that you’re nose has a different membrane and is easily rinsed away. Water is basic but it can still sting cause your nose is sensitive to all kinds of smells and that’s the only thing that should go up the nose, smells. I’d imagine it’s an evolutionary thing that you’re body is going “Hey! That’s not supposed to be there get it out!”