
After Sohail Khan’s video of driving a motorcycle on the streets of Mumbai and not using a helmet went viral, he apologised to his followers in an Instagram submit. Stressing that he feels “claustrophobic” if he wears a helmet, Sohail wrote, “I want to request all of the bike riders please put on helmets. I keep away from sporting them at instances as I really feel claustrophobic, however that’s no excuse to not put on one. Driving has at all times been my ardour since childhood. It started with BMX cycles, and now I experience bikes. I principally experience late at evening when there’s not a lot site visitors to chop dangers that too at a gradual tempo and with my automotive following me.”
The Veer actor continued, “I guarantee fellow riders that I’ll make a real effort to beat my claustrophobia and put on a helmet, so please bear with me. My honest apologies to the site visitors authorities, and I guarantee them that I’ll comply with all the foundations henceforth. I salute all of the riders for sporting their helmets always, regardless of the discomfort, as it’s vital for our security. It’s higher to be protected than sorry. As soon as once more, I’m actually sorry”.
We reached out to a neurologist to grasp the ramifications of not sporting a helmet.
Dr Aniruddha Vasant Extra, guide neurologist, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, defined that the sensation of suffocation whereas sporting a helmet typically pertains to anxiousness or claustrophobia. “The mind interprets the enclosed area as a menace, resulting in signs like shortness of breath, sweating, or restlessness. Importantly, this doesn’t imply the helmet is obstructing oxygen or inflicting hurt,” mentioned Dr Extra.
Emphasising that even a low-speed fall can lead to critical head accidents, Dr Extra mentioned: “The mind could be very prone to sudden impact. Many sufferers we deal with for concussions or inner bleeding weren’t rushing or in heavy site visitors. Accidents are unpredictable.”
How can riders overcome the sensation of suffocation whereas sporting a helmet?
Small adjustments can assist. “Selecting a well-fitted, light-weight helmet with good air flow makes an enormous distinction. Riders can begin by sporting the helmet for brief durations at residence to assist their brains modify to the sensation. Sluggish, managed respiration earlier than and throughout the experience can even reduce panic responses,” mentioned Dr Extra.

Discomfort is a sensory response, not a security indicator. “Helmets are made to guard the cranium and soak up affect. Feeling uncomfortable doesn’t imply there’s diminished airflow or better hazard; in truth, the true danger is driving with out one,” asserted Dr Extra.
Why are neurologists so agency about helmet use?
That’s as a result of we see the results, contended Dr Extra. “Traumatic mind accidents can result in reminiscence loss, character adjustments, seizures, or lifelong incapacity. Not like bones or muscle mass, the mind has a restricted potential to get well after extreme injury. A helmet tremendously lowers the chance of deadly and everlasting injury.”
What to notice?
Recognising the issue is step one. “Claustrophobia might be managed, however mind harm can’t be undone. With the fitting helmet, gradual publicity, and consciousness, most individuals can overcome the discomfort. Sporting a helmet is not only about following the legislation, it’s about defending your future self,” mentioned Dr Extra.
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DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.






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