Blow, sniff or swallow? The best way to clear a blocked nose

Research shows using your finger could spread pneumonia –so what’s the alternative?

Picking your nose isn’t a nice sight, but did you know it could make you ill too? As hayfever season comes around, a study in the European Respiratory Journal revealed this nasty habit (but something everyone does) spreads bacteria that causes pneumonia.

“Picking your nose can risk damaging the lining of your nose, which can result in bleeding and crusting,” says Professor Ram Dhillon. “If you do it aggressively enough you may even produce a hole in the septum of the nose, which can whistle on breathing in.”

It's that dreaded time of year when everyone around you has a cold. Credit: William Brawley via Flickr.

“If you must blow, it’s best to do it after douching the nose with lukewarm water, over the sink or in a shower”, he adds. The direct douching or the moisture of the water vapour softens the crust, so it is easily blown out without damaging the nasal lining.

To stay safe, use tissues rather than handkerchiefs. The NHS advises “catch it, bin it, kill it”, so use a tissue and wash your hands straight after.

For those of us who just need to get rid of unwanted bogeys - don’t shove your finger up there, find a sink with warm water or have a shower instead.