Do We Blink When We Sleep?
No, we do not blink when we sleep. Blinking is an involuntary action that lubricates and cleanses our eyes. However, this automatic process stops when our eyes are closed during sleep.
Blinking is a crucial function, keeping our eyes moist and healthy. It's an automatic reflex, but we can consciously control it as well. [1, 4] However, during sleep, our eyes are closed, eliminating the need for blinking. The cited sources confirm that blinking ceases when our eyes are closed, which happens naturally during sleep. [1, 5]
- Involuntary Action: Blinking typically occurs involuntarily, around 15 times per minute while awake. [9, 10]
- Purpose: This frequent blinking provides essential lubrication and protection for the eyes. [4, 7]
- Sleep: During sleep, with our eyes closed, this involuntary process naturally stops. [1, 5] The eyes might move during REM sleep, but this is distinct from blinking. [1]
- Eye Health: The absence of blinking during sleep does not negatively affect eye health; the eyes are protected by closure. [5, 10]
While some sources mention lubrication mechanisms, these are distinct from the act of blinking itself. [7, 8] The cornea might swell slightly during sleep but returns to normal upon waking. [10] The idea of “blink sleep” discussed in some forums is not the same as the regular involuntary blink reflex and is not related to the question at hand. [8]
References:
[1]: Blinking is an automatic non-conscious natural function. It can be controlled. Blinking stops when your eyes are closed, during sleep, although the eyes may move back and forth, especially during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage of sleep. 26-Sept-2023. (Source provided in prompt)
[4]: Blinking is a natural reflex. Your body does it automatically to keep your eyes lubricated and healthy. But, when necessary, you can blink on command, too. (Source provided in prompt)
[5]: Blinking typically does not occur when you sleep with your eyes open, causing several issues. (Source provided in prompt)
[7]: That's because the act of blinking effectively milks your meibomian glands, causing a little bit of extra meibum to be expressed onto your eye... (Source provided in prompt)
[8]: What causes "Blink Sleep" and why does it (anecdotally) seem to ... (Source provided in prompt)
[9]: Are you curious how often you blink and why? The average teen or adult blinks 15 times per minute, meaning you probably blink about 21600... (Source provided in prompt)
[10]: In fact, your cornea even swells a little bit when you sleep, but goes back to normal soon after you wake up. Your eyes won't get the nutrients... (Source provided in prompt)
