People blink for several reasons, primarily to keep the eyes lubricated and protected. Here are some key reasons why blinking is essential:

1. Lubrication: The eyes need to be kept moist to function properly. Blinking spreads tears across the surface of the eye, providing a protective layer of lubrication. This reduces the risk of the eye drying out, which can cause discomfort, irritation, and damage to the cornea.
2. Protection: Blinking helps to wash away foreign objects, such as dust or debris, that could potentially irritate or injure the eye. It also helps to clear away microorganisms that could lead to infections.
3. Cleaning: When you blink, the action can help to remove mucus or discharge from the eye, which is important for maintaining clear vision.
4. Refreshment: Brief periods of closure during blinking allow the eye to rest and refresh, which can help to reduce eye strain, especially during activities that require prolonged focusing, such as reading or using a computer.
5. Moisture Regulation: Blinking helps to regulate the tear film’s moisture level. If the eyes were to stay open without blinking, the tear film would evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness and potential damage to the cornea.

The average person blinks several times per minute, but this rate can vary depending on the activity. For example, when focusing on a close-up task, such as reading or using a phone, the blink rate may decrease, leading to drier eyes. Conversely, when something catches our attention or when we’re emotional, we may blink more frequently to moisten and protect our eyes.

In some cases, people may not blink enough, which can lead to dry eyes, discomfort, and vision issues. Conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome, Tourette’s syndrome, or certain medications can affect blinking frequency and lead to dry eye symptoms.