Between 18 35 of people sneeze when suddenly exposed to bright light or sunlight

Between 18 - 35% of People Sneeze when Suddenly Exposed to Bright Light or Sunlight

Sneezing is a natural bodily function that can occur for various reasons, such as allergies, colds, or irritants in the air. However, did you know that a significant number of people sneeze when exposed to bright light or sunlight? Studies have shown that between 18 - 35% of individuals experience this fascinating and peculiar phenomenon.

Achoo! Why Do We Sneeze?

Sneezing, also known as sternutation, is a reflexive response triggered by irritation in the nasal passages. When you encounter a substance that irritates the sensitive lining of your nose, such as dust, pollen, or pepper, the irritation sends a signal to a specific part of your brain. In response, your body initiates a sneezing reflex to expel the irritant and clear your nasal passages.

Bless You! The Sunlight Sneezing Phenomenon

The exact reason why some people sneeze when they step out into bright light or sunlight, often referred to as the “photic sneeze reflex” or “sun sneezing,” is still a bit of a mystery to scientists. However, it is believed to be caused by crossed signals in the brain between the optic nerve, which carries visual information, and the trigeminal nerve, which controls sensation in the face.

Shedding Light on the Crossed Wires

When you move from a dimly lit environment into a bright one, your pupils naturally constrict to adjust to the sudden increase in light intensity. At the same time, this change in light can trigger the miscommunication between the optic nerve and the trigeminal nerve, resulting in a spontaneous sneeze.

Is Sun Sneezing Common?

Although the phenomenon of sun sneezing is not widely known, research suggests that approximately 18 - 35% of the population experiences it. This sneezing reflex is thought to be an inherited trait, as it tends to run in families. Some studies indicate that the prevalence is higher in individuals with a family history of sun sneezing.

The Curiosity Continues…

Despite ongoing research, the exact mechanisms behind this peculiar reflex remain largely unexplored. Scientists continue to investigate the intriguing phenomenon of sun sneezing to gain a better understanding of why it occurs and how it is related to the intricate workings of the nervous system.

For more information on sneezing and other biological mysteries, you can refer to the Library of Congress’ Everyday Mysteries.