HomeAnswersOphthalmology (Eye Care)eye careDoes constant staring at the car headlight result in vision damage?

Does staring at car headlight cause vision problem?

Share
Does staring at car headlight cause vision problem?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At September 27, 2017
Reviewed AtFebruary 1, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a police officer and tonight we were looking for a specific car. This entailed me staying in one spot and looking at the license plate of oncoming cars. As the cars come in I am staring at the license plate trying to read it while also looking right into its headlights. I felt a pain in my left eye as I was staring and trying to read the plate. I am not sure if it is just me worrying too much. I hope I did not damage my vision from the headlights. Could car headlights cause damage to my vision?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Staring at bright lights for a while causes transient bleaching of the photoreceptors of the retina. This is universal and normal. When one stares at bright light, one needs some time to recover the function. So, please do not worry. Staring at car headlights is not worrisome if it is not continuous. Routine car headlights do not cause permanent or temporary damage. Blink frequently. You may also use glasses with antiglare coating. Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Bandivadekar Pooja Mohan
Dr. Bandivadekar Pooja Mohan

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

blinkingeye care

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy