Today I learned about the term Photic Sneeze Reflex. For me it’s very mild and actually kind of advantageous. When I feel a sneeze coming on but it begins to fade I can make it happen by looking directly at a bright light.

I had no idea that not everyone can do this, between 18-35% of people. Also for some it is entirely detrimental, resulting in sneezing fits.

  • @SpaceNoodle
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    41 year ago

    It used to be useful for me in my younger years: I could force an oncoming sneeze by gazing at the sun or into a light bulb. Now, I’ll just erupt into sneezing fits if it’s too bright out. Thanks, biology.

    • BigFigOP
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      21 year ago

      That has definitely happened to me before but was exacerbated by severe pollen allergies

    • @CreeperODeath
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      21 year ago

      It’s really annoying when you’re doing something that you don’t want to sneeze while doing

  • @porl
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    21 year ago

    I can rarely go outside without sneezing. Really annoying on bright days!

  • @[email protected]
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    21 year ago

    I have this. It was annoying during the summers of 21 and 22 where people would think I may have covid when actually I sneezed because of a bright light.