Generally, no, you typically do not blink when you are asleep.
When you fall asleep, your eyelids remain closed, and the active blinking reflex that occurs while you're awake largely ceases. This is because the primary function of blinking – to lubricate and cleanse the eye – is less necessary during sleep when your eyes are already covered.
Here's a breakdown of what happens:
- Eyelids Closed: Your eyelids naturally close when you relax and fall asleep.
- Reduced Blinking: The frequency of blinking significantly decreases or stops entirely during sleep.
- Eye Lubrication: The natural moisture in your eyes, along with the closed eyelids, helps keep them lubricated throughout the night.
Because blinking is reduced or absent while sleeping, a small amount of eye discharge can accumulate. This is why many people experience "sleep crust" or "sleepers" in the corners of their eyes in the morning.
In rare instances, very slight, infrequent blinking can occur during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, but it's not the same as the conscious blinking you experience when awake.
