Debunked Myths

This universal warning stems from misunderstanding temporary eye strain as permanent damage. Reading in low light makes eyes work harder—pupils dilate for more light, and eye muscles strain to maintain focus. This causes temporary symptoms like dryness, blurred vision, and headaches (asthenopia).

However, these effects are completely reversible. Resting eyes or improving lighting makes symptoms disappear. Eyes aren't muscles that wear out; they're organs that fatigue but fully recover. No scientific evidence links low-light reading to permanent conditions like nearsightedness, which is primarily genetic.

The myth persists because immediate discomfort feels like lasting harm—a classic case of mistaking correlation for causation. While good lighting is more comfortable and prevents temporary strain, reading by flashlight won't damage vision long-term. It might just cause headaches that better lighting would prevent.