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Thoughts on sniffing

(79 Posts)
Baggs Sun 27-Oct-24 07:27:24

I once was on a longish bus journey when a man came and sat in the seat next to me who sniffed every three seconds. I endured it for a while (and counted the seconds silently) then got out a packet of tissues: "Would you like a tissue?"

"No, I'm alright, thanks", he said.

"But I'm not alright listening to you sniffing every few seconds", I replied.

"I didn't know", he said. "I know you didn't", I replied, "that's why I offered you a tissue".

He took one and blew his nose.

Peace at last!! I would have had to move or even get off the bus otherwise.

tanith Sun 27-Oct-24 07:21:37

A family member did this and it was diagnosed as an anxiety tic. They actually still do it as an adult occasionally although I doubt they even realise they are doing it but I notice.

Calendargirl Sun 27-Oct-24 07:20:52

I can’t stand sniffing. I would have to move away if someone nearby kept sniffing.

I too would feel like saying “Give a good blow!”

Aveline Sun 27-Oct-24 07:06:55

On two separate occasions this week I became aware of a person near me sniffing repeatedly. Both times they were young women. Probably both had colds. I don't know how they could stand the constant sniffing. My quandary was - should I have offered them a tissue? Would that have seemed aggressive or rude or might it actually be helpful? It might be better than me snapping, 'For God's sake blow your nose'!