Whenever you put stress on your eyes, it can cause some strain. This is especially true when you’re trying to see things in low light. When you read in the dark, your eyes have to work harder to see the words on the page, which can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even migraines. In addition, it can also cause your eyes to become dry and irritated.

Here, the best eye clinic in Surrey will discuss in detail how reading in the dark can affect your eye health:

Can You Actually Read in the Dark?

Reading in the dark is definitely possible, even though it may be difficult at first. This is because our eyes are very good at adjusting to different light levels. The pupil will get bigger or smaller to allow more or less light to pass through to the retina. It could take some time for the eyes to adjust, which is why you might be blinded when you turn on a light after being in the dark.

Will Reading in the Dark Really Harm Your Eyes?

Reading in dim light doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll hurt your eyes, but it can give you temporary eye strain.

This means that while reading in dim light will not cause any long-term damage to your eyes, it can cause discomfort and fatigue.

How to Avoid Eye Strain When Reading in the Dark

It’s no secret that reading in the dark can lead to eye strain. After all, our eyes are meant to work best in well-lit conditions. However, there are times when reading in the dark is unavoidable, such as when you’re trying to get to sleep. In these cases, minimizing the strain on your eyes is important.

Here are five tips for avoiding eye strain when reading in the dark:

1. Use a dim light source.

If you can, choose a dim light source to read by, such as a small lamp or a nightlight. This will help to reduce the strain on your eyes.

2. Take breaks.

Reading for long periods can be tiring for your eyes, so be sure to take breaks now and then. Get up and walk around for several minutes, or look away from your book and direct your eyes to something else in the room.

3. Adjust your position.

When reading in the dark, it’s essential to adjust your position so that you’re not straining your eyes. Make sure the book or device you’re reading is at a comfortable distance, and try to position your head and neck in a neutral position.

4. Blink often.

Blinking helps keep your eyes lubricated, so be sure to blink often when reading in the dark. You can also try using artificial tears if your eyes start to feel dry.

5. Use the 20-20-20 rule.

To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

By following these five simple tips from Abasa Optical, you can help to reduce the strain on your eyes when reading in the dark. If you are experiencing any discomfort, be sure to consult with an eye doctor.

Conclusion

While it is possible to read in the dark, it is not ideal. This is because doing so can cause eye strain, which can be pretty uncomfortable. If you must read in the dark, try to do so for only a short period, and take breaks often to rest your eyes. You should also get an eye exam in Surrey to ensure that your eye health is good and that reading in the dark won’t aggravate any problems.

Abasa Optical is the best eye clinic in Surrey, where you can get your reading glasses, contact lenses, frames, and more. We also perform comprehensive eye exams, so schedule your visit today!