glare

Glare is a visual discomfort or pain experienced when the eyes are exposed to intense light, particularly from sources like bright sunlight, artificial lights, or reflections. It can occur in various settings, including outdoor environments, indoor spaces with excessive lighting, or even from electronic screens. Glare disrupts vision by causing glare effects, which can reduce contrast sensitivity and make it difficult to see objects clearly.

The two primary types of glare are direct glare and reflected glare. Direct glare occurs when light enters the eye directly from a bright source, such as the sun or a bright lamp. Reflected glare, also known as veiling glare, happens when light reflects off surfaces like windows, wet roads, or shiny objects, creating a bright spot that obscures vision. Other forms of glare include ambient glare, which affects the entire visual field, and disability glare, which impairs vision by reducing contrast.

Glare can have both short-term and long-term effects. In the short term, it may cause temporary discomfort, headaches, or squinting. Prolonged exposure to glare, especially in high-risk occupations like driving, construction, or aviation, can lead to more severe issues such as eye strain, fatigue, and an increased risk of eye injuries. Some individuals may also experience glare sensitivity as a symptom of certain eye conditions, such as cataracts or retinal disorders.

Managing glare involves using strategies like wearing appropriate eyewear, such as sunglasses with UV protection or polarized lenses, adjusting lighting in indoor environments, and using glare-reducing coatings on surfaces. In professional settings, glare control measures may include proper lighting design, reflective barriers, or the use of specialized equipment to minimize light interference.