Understanding What Causes Halos Around Lights: 1 Minute to Clear Your Confusion about Light Halos

Halos around lights are a common visual phenomenon where bright sources, such as streetlamps or headlights, appear to be surrounded by circles or rings of light, especially in dim or dark environments. People may notice halos when looking directly at luminous objects, and in most cases, they are a benign optical effect. However, persistent or pronounced halos can sometimes indicate underlying vision problems that may require medical attention.

The most frequent causes of halos around lights include:

1. Refractive Errors: Imperfections in the eye's ability to focus light, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, can cause light to scatter, producing the halo effect.
2. Dry Eyes: Insufficient tear film can lead to irregularities on the eye’s surface, causing light diffraction and the perception of halos.
3. Eye Surgery or Lens Implants: Procedures like LASIK or the placement of intraocular lenses (for cataracts) can cause halos, especially at night, as the eye heals or adapts.
4. Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens scatters incoming light, making halos more noticeable. This is particularly common in older adults.
5. Corneal Edema: Swelling of the cornea, sometimes after surgery or due to glaucoma, can alter how light is transmitted, resulting in halos.
6. Glare from Contact Lenses or Glasses: Sometimes, poorly fitted or dirty lenses can scatter light and increase the appearance of halos.
7. Medications: Certain eye drops, particularly those used after eye surgery, can temporarily cause visual side effects like halos.

From a design perspective, understanding how light behaves and interacts with transparent or reflective surfaces—such as glass, water, or polished stone—is essential for both architectural and interior design. For example, carefully considering the placement and intensity of lighting fixtures in 3D render home visualizations helps minimize glare and unwanted light scattering, which can contribute to visual discomfort similar to halos in real-world environments.

Tips 1:

If you notice sudden, severe, or worsening halos—particularly if they're accompanied by pain, redness, or loss of vision—consult an eye care professional promptly to rule out serious conditions such as acute angle-closure glaucoma or corneal problems. Routine eye exams can help address minor issues like refractive errors, while designers and homeowners can optimize lighting choices and furniture placements to create visually comfortable spaces free from glare and unwanted reflections.

FAQ

Q: What are halos around lights?

A: Halos are circular rings or glows that appear around light sources, caused by the scattering or diffraction of light in the eye.

Q: Can wearing glasses or contacts cause halos?

A: Yes, especially if lenses are dirty, scratched, or poorly fitted, which can scatter light abnormally.

Q: Are halos around lights always a sign of eye disease?

A: Not always. They can be a normal effect in low light or due to minor vision issues, but sudden or severe halos may indicate a medical problem.

Q: How can I reduce halos in my home lighting?

A: Use frosted bulbs, dimmers, and strategic fixture placement to minimize glare and light scatter.Q: When should I see a doctor about halos?

A: Seek prompt evaluation if halos are new, worsen suddenly, or are accompanied by vision changes, pain, or redness.