What happens if you get water up your nose?

1. Initial response: When water gets up your nose, the immediate response is a sudden reflex to sneeze or cough. This is the body's natural defense mechanism to expel the water from the nasal cavity. Sneezing or coughing creates a forceful expulsion of air through the nose, helping to clear the water.

2. Feeling of discomfort: Water in the nose can cause a feeling of discomfort or irritation. The nasal passages are lined with delicate mucous membranes that are sensitive to foreign substances, including water. The presence of water can disrupt the normal balance and function of these membranes, leading to a sensation of discomfort.

3. Nasal congestion: Water can cause congestion in the nasal passages by blocking the flow of air and mucus. This congestion may make it difficult to breathe through the nose, resulting in a stuffy feeling. As the water moves deeper into the nasal passages, it can cause swelling and inflammation of the surrounding tissues, further contributing to congestion.

4. Runny nose: Water can stimulate the production of mucus in the nasal passages as the body tries to flush out the foreign substance. This increased mucus production leads to a runny nose. The clear, watery discharge may contain traces of salt and other components from the water, along with normal nasal secretions.

5. Post-nasal drip: Some of the water that gets up the nose may drain down the back of the throat, causing post-nasal drip. This sensation can trigger coughing, throat irritation, and a feeling of something dripping down the back of the throat. Post-nasal drip can also contribute to a sore throat.

6. Temporary impairment of smell: Water in the nose can temporarily impair the sense of smell. The olfactory receptors, which are responsible for detecting smells, are located in the upper part of the nasal cavity. When water enters the nose, it can disrupt the interaction between these receptors and odor molecules, leading to a reduced ability to smell. However, this impairment is usually temporary and resolves once the water clears from the nasal cavity.

7. Potential for infection: In rare cases, getting water up the nose may increase the risk of infection. If the water is contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms, it can introduce pathogens into the nasal cavity and sinuses. This can lead to infections such as sinusitis or, in more severe cases, meningitis. However, it's important to note that the risk of infection is low and mostly associated with specific situations, such as swimming in contaminated water or diving in unsanitary conditions.