When the sun goes down, visibility decreases, and even with good daytime vision, our eyes find it harder to adapt to the dark. Night vision relies on specialized retinal cells, called rods, which respond to dim light.
However, various factors, such as age, fatigue or eye health conditions, can affect this ability. Whether you're into night-time hiking, evening jogging or simply concerned about your safety on the road, it's essential to understand the challenges of night vision and adopt a few precautions to see and be seen more easily.
Understanding the difference between day and night vision
Daytime vision, under the effect of natural or artificial light, relies on retinal cells called cones, which enable us to see details and colours. On the other hand, night vision depends on rods, which detect contrasts in low light. As night falls, our eyes take some time to adapt to darkness. Depending on the environment and eye health, this adaptation process can take 10 to 30 minutes.
Adopt safe habits for night-time activities
- Equip yourself with lights and reflectors: If you participate in activities such as cycling, walking, or running in the evening, equipping yourself with reflective strips and headlamps can improve your safety by making your presence more obvious to others.
- Use appropriate eyewear: If you need glasses, anti-reflective coatings can reduce glare from car headlights or street lamps, making it easier to see.
- Pay attention to signs of eye fatigue: Night vision can be more affected if you're tired. A good night's sleep helps improve the sensitivity of retinal rods for night vision.
Avoid bright lights before and during night-time activities
Our eyes adapt to darkness by dilating their pupils to capture as much light as possible. Exposure to bright lights (such as a telephone screen) can disrupt this adaptation and make vision more difficult afterwards. Avoid looking at light sources directly before or during night-time activities and prefer dimmer display modes.
Eat a healthy diet for eye health
Certain nutrients are essential for maintaining good night vision. Antioxidants such as vitamin A and zinc, found in foods like carrots, spinach and oily fish, contribute to the health of retinal cells. A balanced diet can, therefore, support the health of your eyes and help maintain more stable vision in low light.
When to consult an Optometrist
If you notice increased difficulty seeing at night, frequent glare or decreased night vision, this may be a sign of an eye condition. Don't hesitate to consult an Optometrist for a complete eye examination. Certain pathologies, such as cataracts or vitamin deficiencies, can affect night vision and require specific treatment.
Getting around safely at night means understanding the particularities of night vision and taking simple precautions to maximize safety. By looking after your eyes, equipping yourself properly and adopting healthy habits, you can enjoy your nighttime activities confidently, with clearer, safer vision.
