Brains On! Science podcast for kids Why does the sun make some people sneeze?
May 12, 2015
Exploring the mystery of why the sun makes some people sneeze, including a genetic reflex. Interesting facts about the sun's size and temperature are shared, along with the potential implications of the sneeze reflex, including connections to seizures.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Kids Describe Sun-Induced Sneezes
- Listeners Caitlin (9) and Megan (7) describe sneezing when they glance at the sunny sky after coming outside.
- Their experience mirrors Aristotle's question asked over 2,300 years ago, showing the phenomenon's long-known nature.
Photic Sneeze Reflex Explained
- Photic sneeze reflex makes bright light trigger sneezes without nasal irritants.
- Dr. Louis Patatich explains it may be an abnormal reflex where light activates brainstem sneeze circuits in about 10% of people.
Photic Sneeze Runs In Families
- Photic sneeze reflex appears hereditary, with affected people often noticing family members also sneeze from bright light.
- Roughly 10% of the population has the trait and many think 'doesn't everybody do that?'.