How Do People with Astigmatism See Lights?: 1 Minute to Understand Astigmatism’s Effect on Vision

Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregular curve of the cornea or lens, which prevents light from focusing evenly on the retina. People with astigmatism experience blurred or distorted vision at any distance, but one of the most distinctive visual effects relates to how they see lights—especially at night. When someone with astigmatism looks at a light source, such as a streetlamp or car headlights, the light often appears stretched out, smeared into streaks, or surrounded by halos. This visual distortion may cause lights to have a "starburst" or "flare" effect, making it challenging to drive in low-light conditions or enjoy nighttime cityscapes.

From a designer’s perspective, understanding the way astigmatism affects light perception is crucial for creating well-illuminated, comfortable interiors. Carefully considering the placement and type of lighting fixtures can minimize glare, reduce harsh shadows, and improve overall visibility for individuals with astigmatism. For example, adjustable ambient lighting, diffused light sources, and glare-reducing lamps can make a significant difference.

As a designer, I always recommend visualizing light distribution and shadow interplay before finalizing a space—tools like a 3D floor planner allow you to simulate how different lighting setups impact comfort, making it easier to design inclusive, visually accommodating environments.

Tips 1:

If you or someone in your household has astigmatism, consider soft, diffused overhead lighting rather than exposed bulbs. Use matte finishes for walls and surfaces to prevent harsh reflections, and layer your light sources to achieve balanced illumination throughout your space.

FAQ

Q: Why do people with astigmatism see halos or streaks around lights?

A: Irregular curvature of the cornea bends light unevenly, causing it to scatter and create visual artifacts such as halos, streaks, or starbursts around light sources.

Q: Does astigmatism affect seeing lights during the daytime?

A: Bright, direct lights or reflections can still appear distorted during the day, but the effect is usually most noticeable at night or in low-light environments.

Q: Can proper lighting design help people with astigmatism?

A: Yes, thoughtful lighting design—including diffused fixtures, layered lighting, and matte finishes—can help reduce glare and improve clarity for people with astigmatism.

Q: Are certain colors or types of bulbs better for people with astigmatism?

A: Warm, soft white lights and LED bulbs with diffusers tend to be easier on the eyes. Avoid lights with harsh contrast or high-intensity glare.

Q: Is astigmatism curable with lighting adjustments alone?

A: Lighting adjustments improve comfort and reduce eye strain, but astigmatism itself is usually treated with corrective lenses or refractive surgery.