Naked Science Forum

On the Lighter Side => New Theories => Topic started by: stana on 24/12/2007 22:03:22

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: stana on 24/12/2007 22:03:22

Hey, Ive got a really bad cold. And i experimented last night. I held my breath, and forced myself to breathe through my nose. Would this cause my brain to think im dying, hence sending more blood, oxygen and WBC to my nose, helping to unblock my stuffy nose?

Thanks

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: paul.fr on 24/12/2007 22:17:47

I do the opposite. having had my nose broken a ...few...times i can no longer breathe through one nostril and barely through the other. So i always breathe through my mouth.

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: stana on 24/12/2007 22:29:12

Ohh i looove the joke haha!

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: paul.fr on 24/12/2007 22:30:24

to answer the actual question:
I think your brain would kick in and send some signal to override you holding your breath, long before any serious effect were to happen. Is this not why people drown? they try holding their breath but at some point have to open their mouth and drown by breathing in water!!!

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: stana on 24/12/2007 22:40:19

Yes. But could i physically force myself to breathe through my blocked nose? Masking tape over the mouth or something, and then my WBC's would concentrate more on the removal of the mucas? Or would i die of suffocation before my body got rid of the mucas?

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: turnipsock on 25/12/2007 00:31:50

I thought that the swelling of the nasal passage was the bodies reaction to limit any more infection getting into your system. If you want to open up your passages, go right ahead. If the suffocation doesn't kill you, the increased infections will.

My big fear is having a dental appointment and not being able to breath through my nose...it could be bad if they have to take an impression.

Title: Forced suffocation until nasal passages unblocked?
Post by: stana on 25/12/2007 10:28:47

Aaah i see now. Thank you  [;D]