Sneezing is a natural reflex that helps clear irritants from our nasal passages, yet it rarely happens while we sleep.
Have you ever wondered why? Researchers have investigated this peculiar phenomenon, and the answer lies in how our brain and body function during different sleep stages.
Sneezing Is a Reflex, but Sleep Changes Everything
Sneezing is an automatic response to nasal irritation, but when we sleep, our brain’s sensory processing slows down.
This means that minor irritations that would usually trigger a sneeze may not be strong enough to wake us up.
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The Brain Prioritizes Sleep Over Sneezing
During sleep, the body focuses on essential functions like breathing and muscle recovery.
The brain suppresses less critical reflexes, including sneezing, to ensure uninterrupted rest.
We Wake Up Before We Sneeze
If a nasal irritant is strong enough, the body reacts by waking us up before initiating a sneeze.
This is part of a built-in survival mechanism designed to protect our airways.
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Our Sleep Stages Play a Role
Non-REM sleep, the deepest sleep phase, is when the body’s reflexes are most suppressed.
In REM sleep, where dreaming occurs, our muscles are temporarily paralyzed, making it even harder to sneeze.
The Reticular Activating System Acts as a Gatekeeper
A structure in the brainstem called the reticular activating system regulates our transitions between sleep and wakefulness.
It determines whether an external stimulus, such as nasal irritation, is strong enough to wake us up.
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Sneezing in Sleep Is Extremely Rare but Possible
Some researchers suggest that people in extreme exhaustion or deep sleep might sneeze without waking up.
However, this is uncommon, as sneezing typically triggers an awakening response.
Your Sleeping Position Can Reduce Sneezing
Lying on your back can allow irritants like dust or allergens to accumulate in your nasal passages.
Sleeping on your side may help reduce irritation and the likelihood of waking up to sneeze.
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Nasal Congestion Plays a Role
A stuffy nose can lead to increased sneezing during the night.
Keeping your sleeping environment clean and using a humidifier can help reduce nasal irritation.
REM Sleep Paralysis Prevents Movement
During REM sleep, the brain temporarily disables voluntary muscle movement to prevent us from physically acting out our dreams.
This paralysis also makes sneezing nearly impossible.
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Try the Cotton Swab Test
Want to see if your partner sneezes in their sleep? Lightly tickle their nose with a cotton swab while they’re asleep.
Chances are, they will wake up before sneezing, proving that the body prioritizes alertness over reflexes.
This article is based on information from Videnskab.dk