How to Improve Night Blindness

Night blindness, sometimes referred to as nyctalopia, is poor vision in low light situations. Because night blindness limits your ability to see in dark conditions, it can make driving at night difficult or dangerous. This condition is typically thought to be a symptom of an underlying disorder rather than a disorder unto itself, so if you suffer from night blindness it is important to determine the root cause. Once you know what is causing the problem you can work to improve your night blindness.

Things You'll Need

• Eye doctor
• Vitamin A-rich foods
• flashlight

Instructions

1. Record your history. Write down your experiences with night blindness including when you first noticed your night blindness, whether it began gradually or suddenly, your assessment of how bad it is, and whether you have had any other recent changes in your vision.

2. Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. Discuss your questions and concerns regarding your night blindness with him or her including the information you recorded. Undergo a thorough eye and vision examination in order to obtain a professional diagnosis.

3. Discuss treatment options. If your doctor diagnosed myopia, wear corrective glasses or contact lenses. Consider scheduling eye surgery if the exam revealed cataracts. Discuss changing your glaucoma medication if the diagnosis shows it is contributing to your night blindness. Recognize that some conditions that cause night blindness cannot be treated.

4. Add vitamin A to your diet. A deficiency in vitamin A can cause night blindness. Eat more vitamin A-rich foods, including dark green and dark yellow vegetables and yellow fruits, into your diet. If your diet is deficient in these foods, consider taking supplements with vitamin A or being tested for a deficiency.

5. Take practical steps to improve your ability to see in low light situations. Drive with your headlights on bright as long as there is no oncoming traffic. Remove your sunglasses as the sun begins to set. Carry a portable flashlight on your key chain to help you see in low light environments. Arrange for someone else to drive if your night blindness is too severe to allow you to safely drive after dark.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people who have difficulty seeing in poor light may also require additional time for their eyes to adjust from bright to dim lighting conditions.

• Excess supplementation with vitamin A can be toxic. Consult with your physician for safe dosages.

References

• National Library of Medicine
• Cleveland Clinic
• University of Maryland Medical Center

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Diet and Health Net