Blowing your nose might seem like a basic task, but many of us are doing it incorrectly according to Bioethicist Insoo Hyun, the Director of the Center for Life Sciences at the Museum of Science. Taking to their TikTok page, he warned that the common method could damage blood vessels and lead to nosebleeds or even ear infections.
Insoo said on the video: “Blowing your nose. You may be doing it wrong. Chances are you get a tissue and just blow hard with both nostrils. But ear, nose and throat doctors say that it’s not the best way to blow your nose.”
He shared that blowing hard creates too much sinus pressure, risking blood vessel damage and pushing mucus toward the inner ear, which can cause an infection. Isoo recommends: “Well, you should block off one nostril with a tissue, and just blow gently and steadily with the other nostril. And then switch nostrils and do the same thing until you’re all clear.”
He also advises washing hands with hot water and soap afterwards to prevent spreading germs.
It appears that a common practice has been widely misdone, sparking reactions online. One individual exclaimed, “We’ve been doing everything wrong forever,” while another gratefully said: “That is me! Thank you for sharing this information.”
A third person shared their relief: “OMG, I’ve literally been concerned about my nose blowing lately. For weeks now, every time I blow my nose there’s blood; I thought it might indicate something else. But I’ll do this instead now!” However, some are baffled by the revelation, with one commenting, “I refuse to believe that adults are blowing both nostrils at the same time,” and another asking incredulously, “Wait…people blow both nostrils at the same time????” While nosebleeds are generally not indicative of serious issues, regular occurrences should prompt a visit to the GP.
Ear infections, especially prevalent among children, can cause symptoms such as ear pain, fever, hearing difficulties, and discharge. Although not all ear infections require GP attention, it’s advisable to consult one if symptoms persist beyond three days or occur frequently.