Ophthalmologist names 3 good reasons not to read lying down

Ophthalmologist gives 3 good reasons not to read lying down

A book in bed before going to sleep will have to be postponed.

Ophthalmologist of the Eye Microsurgery Center “I See”

What happens if you read lying down?

Reading during the day in the modern rhythm of life, as a rule, there is no time at all. But some people still try to make time for it at least before going to bed – lying in a warm and cozy bed. However, it is not for nothing that many were forbidden to do so in childhood. In order not to harm your eyes, you need to read correctly – not lying down. We tell you why such a habit can be dangerous.

Wrong distance from the book to the eyes

When reading lying down, we do not observe the necessary distance from the eyes to the book: it should be about 30-40 cm. If the book is closer, the eye muscles are overstretched, which, in turn, provokes their fatigue. This is expressed by pain, dry eyes, there is also a feeling of swaddling in front of the eyes. In myopic people, this can aggravate the situation – provoke a drop in visual acuity.

In addition, the size of the font for reading from a distance of 30-40 cm is important: it should be comfortable for your visual acuity.

By the way, the distance from the eyes to the object is also important when working at the computer. How to properly equip your workplace, read in the article at the link.

Wrong light source

When we read lying down, we can not always choose a source of suitable lighting. And it should be moderate, not too dim and not too bright. A lamp, sconce or floor lamp should be placed at the back or directed so that the light falls from above and does not glare. It is best if it is diffused and soft. No soffits or bright lamps, as in the operating room.

Improper head position

When reading in a horizontal position, a person holds his head incorrectly, because of which the cervical spine suffers and blood stagnation in the brain occurs. This does not cause much harm in short-term episodes. But with a systematically incorrect position, especially in children whose spine is still developing, various disorders are possible. This is also reflected in vision: the disruption of the blood supply to the occipital and cervical parts of the spine affects both the blood supply to the eyes and the fatigue of the eye muscle.

No matter how romantic and attractive the idea of wrapping yourself in a blanket with your favorite book may seem, the stamp from the movie is not worth your health. It is better to arrange a special place for reading – with a comfortable chair and the right lighting. And the bed to use for its direct purpose – for rest.

By the way, if you have problems with your eyesight and you prefer lenses to glasses, you should take them off before going to bed. Why – told in the article at the link.