Can you go blind from looking at your phone in the dark?

As an expert in ophthalmology, I can provide you with a detailed explanation regarding the concern about going blind from looking at your phone in the dark. Firstly, it's important to clarify what is meant by "going blind." Total blindness is the complete loss of vision, which is a severe condition and not something that would typically result from phone use, even in the dark. However, the phrase could also be used to describe temporary vision impairment or discomfort, which is indeed a possibility when staring at a bright screen in a dark environment. The human eye is an incredible organ that can adapt to a wide range of light conditions. In darkness, the pupils dilate to allow more light to enter, which is why our eyes can adjust to see better in low light. When you look at a bright screen, especially when your pupils are dilated, it can cause a significant strain on the eyes. This strain can lead to symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, discomfort, and even temporary vision impairment, which might be referred to as "temporary blindness" in a colloquial sense. The reference to two women experiencing temporary blindness from constantly checking their phones in the dark is a cause for concern. While this may be an extreme case, it underscores the potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to screens in low light conditions. Doctors advising the use of both eyes when looking at a smartphone screen in the dark is a practical tip to reduce the strain on one eye, which could otherwise lead to an imbalance in eye fatigue and discomfort. To understand the potential effects on vision, let's delve into some of the mechanisms at play: 1. Blue Light Exposure: Smartphones and other digital devices emit a high level of blue light, which has been linked to disruptions in sleep patterns and, in some studies, to an increased risk of eye problems over time. 2. Digital Eye Strain: Also known as computer vision syndrome, this is a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader, and smartphone use. 3. Pupil Dilation: In the dark, pupils are larger to let in more light. A bright screen in this setting can lead to a photic sneeze reflex (photophobia) and can be more damaging to the eyes. 4. Dry Eye Syndrome: Staring at a screen reduces the blink rate, leading to less lubrication on the eye surface, which can cause dryness and irritation. 5. Near Point Convergence: When focusing on a close object like a phone screen, the eyes must converge. In dim light, this process can be more difficult and lead to eye strain. To mitigate these risks, here are some recommendations: - Adjust Screen Brightness: Lower the brightness of your phone screen to reduce the strain on your eyes. - Use Night Mode: Many devices have a night mode or blue light filter that can help reduce the amount of blue light emitted. - Take Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break. - Proper Lighting: If you must use your phone in the dark, try to have some ambient light to reduce the contrast between the screen and the environment. - Blink Frequently: This helps to moisten the eyes and prevent dryness. - Regular Eye Exams: Having regular check-ups with an eye care professional can help detect any issues early and keep your eyes in good health. In conclusion, while it's unlikely that you would go completely blind from looking at your phone in the dark, it's not without risks. It's essential to take precautions to protect your vision and reduce the potential for eye strain and discomfort.

Checking your phone at night in the dark can cause temporary blindness. ... Two women went temporarily blind from constantly checking their phones in the dark, say doctors who are now alerting others to the unusual phenomenon. The solution: Make sure to use both eyes when looking at your smartphone screen in the dark.Jun 26, 2016