Reading in the dark has long been a subject of concern for many, often accompanied by warnings from parents and teachers. However, the truth about its effects on our eyes is more nuanced than commonly believed.
Is reading in the dark bad for our eyes?
Contrary to popular belief, reading in the dark does not cause permanent damage to your eyesight. There’s no scientific evidence to suggests that this practice leads to long-term eye problems or conditions like myopia (nearsightedness). This myth has been largely debunked by medical professionals and researchers.
Symptoms of reading in the dark
However, while reading in low light conditions won’t cause lasting harm, it can lead to temporary discomfort and eye strain. When you read in dim lighting, your eyes have to work harder to focus on the text, which can result in:
- Headaches
- Itchy or tired eyes
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Dry eyes
These symptoms, collectively known as eye strain, typically subside once you stop reading in the dark or move to a well-lit environment.
The ideal lighting for reading falls between 300 to 500 lux, which is comparable to the brightness of a good reading lamp. This level of illumination keeps your eyes comfortable and minimises the risk of strain without causing glare.
What can I do to reduce eye strain?
For those who enjoy reading at night, here are some tips to reduce eye strain:
- Use proper lighting: Opt for LED lights over fluorescent ones, as they emit a “warmer” light that’s easier on the eyes.
- Take regular breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break to look at something 20 feet away (6 metres).
- Blink often: This helps lubricate your eyes and reduce dryness.
- Consider e-readers: If you’re reading on a digital device, use an e-reader that mimics paper or enable
- Maintain proper distance: Hold your reading material at an appropriate distances from your eyes.
It’s worth noting that reading on electronic devices in the dark presents additional challenges. The blue light emitted by these screens can increase eye strain by about 15% more than physical books, and may disrupt your sleep patterns by interfering with melatonin production.
While reading in the dark won’t permanently damage your eyes, it’s best to provide adequate lighting for a more comfortable reading experience. If you consistently experience eye discomfort while reading, regardless of lighting conditions, it’s advisable to consult an eye care professional. They can assess your vision and recommend appropriate solutions, such as reading glasses or adjustments to your reading habits.
In conclusion, while reading in the dark isn’t inherently harmful to your long-term eye health, it’s generally more comfortable and less training to read in well-lit conditions. By following good reading habits and ensuring proper lighting, you can enjoy your books without unnecessary eye discomfort.