Ep 9. Why Do You Sneeze?

Colossal Questions is a show which answers some of the biggest and most perplexing questions of the world in a fun and engaging manner. Season three, episode nine 'Why Do You Sneeze?' seeks to demystify the common phenomenon of sneezing.

Sneezing is a reflex action where air is suddenly expelled from the nose and mouth due to irritation of the respiratory system. It is a natural mechanism which helps to remove irritants from the nose. A simple act of sneezing can result in the expulsion of about 100,000 droplets of mucus and saliva at a speed of 100 miles per hour. However, have you ever wondered what causes a sneeze in the first place?

In this episode, the host takes the audience on a journey to explore the physiological and biological mechanisms that lead to a sneeze. The episode begins with an overview of the importance of the nose and the respiratory system. The nose helps in breathing and filtering the air we breathe to clear out the airborne particles and irritants. The respiratory system is a complex network of organs including the nose, mouth, throat, lungs, and diaphragm which work together to supply oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the body.

As the show progresses, the host introduces the concept of a sneeze and explains how it occurs. The sneeze receptors in the nose are the first line of defense against foreign substances like dust, pollen, or virus particles, which irritate the nasal cavity. When the receptors detect irritants, they trigger a signal to the brain, which activates the sneezing reflex. The host explains that sneezing is a defense mechanism to protect the body from the harmful substances which can cause allergic reactions or respiratory infections.

The show delves further into the anatomy of a sneeze, explaining that the muscles of the nasal cavity and pharynx contract forcefully to expel the irritants from the body. It also explains how different factors like allergies, cold, flu, or even bright light can trigger a sneeze. The host also discusses the myth that holding a sneeze is harmful and explains the potential risks associated with it, like rupturing of the blood vessel in the brain.

The episode then shifts its focus to some interesting facts about sneezing, such as the average number of times a person sneezes in a day, the speed of a sneeze, and the impact of sneezing on the body. The show also explains the concept of photic sneezing, where a person sneezes in response to bright light, and the potential reasons behind it.

Furthermore, the host explores how people of different cultures perceive sneezing and the superstitions associated with it. For instance, In Japan, people believe that a sneeze is a sign of good luck, while in other cultures, it is deemed to be a sign of bad luck.

The episode wraps up by discussing the different types of sneezes like the single, double, and triple sneezes and how they vary in terms of the severity and the number of irritants. It also briefly touches upon the novel coronavirus pandemic and the importance of sneezing and coughing etiquette.

In conclusion, this episode of Colossal Questions is an informative and entertaining exploration into the world of sneezing. It covers a broad range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, and cultural perceptions of sneezing. The show is perfect for people of all ages who want to learn more about sneezing, especially those who suffer from allergies or colds. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the incredible mechanisms of the human body.