When you go out for a walk on a sunny day, you may have experienced a series of sudden sneezes when looking directly at the sun. This is a common condition known as the photic sneeze reflex that many people experience. But what are the scientific mechanisms behind this interesting reflex?
What is the Photic Sneeze Reflex?
The photic sneeze reflex, also known as ‘sun sneeze‘, is a reaction that occurs when we are exposed to strong light sources. This condition affects approximately 18% to 35% of the population and is typically passed down through families. Interestingly, this reflex is especially common among individuals of Caucasian descent and women.
Scientific explanations clarify this reflex by the signals going from our eyes to the brain and the interaction with the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve is a large nerve that controls sensory functions in the face, nose, and mouth area. When sunlight hits our eyes, this nerve is excessively stimulated, which triggers the sneezing reflex.
Philosophers’ Approach to the Subject
Sneezing has also been a subject of curiosity in ancient times, studied by philosophers such as Aristotle and Francis Bacon. Aristotle suggested that the warmth of the sun could trigger irritation inside the nose, while Bacon pointed out that the sun’s light causing teary eyes could tickle the nose and trigger sneezing.
As our knowledge increases, we gain more insight into how this reflex works correctly. However, whether this reflex provides an evolutionary advantage remains a topic of debate. Nonetheless, it is generally known that the photic sneeze reflex is harmless and lasts only a few seconds.
What Can You Do to Reduce It?
In daily life, some precautions can be taken to reduce the possible risks created by the photic sneeze reflex. Especially when driving or working with heavy machinery, care should be taken against the possible dangers of sneezing when suddenly moving from a dark area to a sunny one. Wearing sunglasses, using a hat, and blinking before looking at the sun can help reduce reflexes caused by sudden changes in light.
In conclusion, the photic sneeze reflex is both medically and culturally intriguing and warrants further research. While it can be managed with small precautions in daily life, more scientific research will help better understand this genetic legacy.
Source: Focus, PBS , National Library of Medicine