Why Do My Arms Hurt When I Sneeze?
Have you ever been confused as to why your arms hurt whenever you sneeze? You’re not alone – This is a question that many people ask and there’s actually a scientific explanation.
Tension of Muscles
Whenever you sneeze, your body experiences a sudden increase in tension in your stomach and chest muscles. This tension is then passed onto the other muscles in your body such as those in your arms, causing them to contract and leading to the feeling of pain that you experience.
Referred Pain
The phenomenon of your arms hurting due to muscle tension is known as referred pain. This occurs when the primary source of pain is in one area of the body and the pain is felt in another area.
Relieving the Pain
If you’re experiencing pain in your arms every time you sneeze, there are some simple steps that you can take to lessen the pain.
- Take a deep breath
This will help relax your muscles, thereby reducing the tension that is experienced when you sneeze.
- Relax your arms
Make an effort to keep your arms relaxed when you sneeze and try to relax them, too.
- Take an anti-inflammatory
Taking a medication like ibuprofen before you sneeze can help reduce any inflammation and thus the pain in your arms.
Pain in your arms when you sneeze is not uncommon, and it’s can be quite worrying if you’re not aware of the cause. Knowing the cause of referred pain and what steps you can take to reduce the feeling of pain can help put your mind at ease and help you to take preventive measures.
1. Is arm pain a common side effect of sneezing?
No, arm pain is not a common side effect of sneezing. Common side effects of sneezing include a runny nose, watery eyes, and headaches.
3. What could be the cause of the arm pain while sneezing?
The most likely cause of arm pain while sneezing is a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve occurs when an area of the body is compressed, restricting blood circulation and causing pain or numbness. This can be due to a herniated disk in the spine, posture-related issues, an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, or simply an awkward position when sneezing or coughing. Sometimes the pain can travel to other areas, such as the arm, depending on where the nerve has been pinched. If the pain persists, it is recommended to seek medical attention to identify the root cause and proper treatment.
5. Is there a way to prevent the arm pain when sneezing?
Yes, there are a few ways to prevent arm pain when sneezing:
1. Maintain good posture – Sit or stand up straight when you sneeze to help prevent strain on your arms and shoulders.
2. Practice good breathing techniques – Clench your abdominal muscles and exhale slowly to help reduce the force of your sneezes.
3. Wear supportive clothing – Supportive sports bras and other clothing can help keep your body in alignment when you sneeze, reducing strain on your arms.
4. Strengthen your core muscles – Strengthening your abdominal and back muscles can help create a more supportive core, reducing the strain on your arms when you sneeze.
5. Consult a doctor – If the arm pain persists despite taking preventive measures, visit a doctor to discuss the cause and potential treatment options.