By Dr. Itua E.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we understand that clear vision, especially at night—is critical for your safety, confidence, and overall well-being. While daytime vision often gets all the attention, night vision problems can seriously affect your ability to drive safely, walk in dimly lit streets, and perform everyday tasks.
In Nigeria, particularly in cities like Lagos, where power outages and poor street lighting are common—night vision is more than a luxury; it’s a necessity.
This guide explains:
- What is night vision
- How it's tested
- The most common causes of night blindness in Nigerians
- How lifestyle and local conditions in Ikeja affect your eyesight
- Steps you can take to preserve and improve your night vision
Why Night Vision Matters in Lagos
Our eyes rely on rod cells in the retina to function in low-light conditions. These allow us to adjust in the dark and detect contrast and motion. Whether you’re driving through Ikeja GRA at night or walking through areas with limited lighting, your scotopic (low-light) vision is critical.
Night vision is essential for:
- Night-time driving: Avoiding glare from headlights and spotting road hazards
- Safety and mobility: Navigating dark areas during power outages
- Night-shift jobs: Especially in security, logistics, or healthcare
How Night Vision Testing Works
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, we use a range of tests to assess your ability to see clearly in low light.
Night Vision Tests Offered:
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Dark Adaptation Test
Checks how quickly your eyes adjust from bright light to darkness. A delay could mean vitamin A deficiency, retinal issues, or age-related changes.
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Contrast Sensitivity Test (Mesopic & Scotopic)
Measures how well you see shapes and edges in low contrast. Poor results can indicate retinal or optic nerve issues.
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Electroretinography (ERG)
Detects electrical responses from rods and cones to diagnose conditions like retinitis pigmentosa.
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Peripheral Field Testing in Low Light
Identifies loss of side vision in dark conditions—common in glaucoma and retinal disorders.
Common Night Vision Challenges in Nigerians
1. Vitamin A Deficiency (Nyctalopia)
Vitamin A is essential for producing rhodopsin, the pigment responsible for night vision. A deficiency can cause difficulty seeing in dim light, and it’s surprisingly common due to nutritional habits.
Case Example – Ikeja GRA
A 45-year-old warehouse supervisor experienced difficulty seeing at night while walking home. Testing at SpecSMART Eye Clinic, Ikeja revealed a vitamin A deficiency. With proper supplementation, his night vision significantly improved.
2. Cataracts and Glare While Driving at Night
Cataracts scatter incoming light and cause halos and glare, making night driving dangerous. While we don’t perform surgery at SpecSMART Eye Clinic, we specialize in early diagnosis and trusted referrals.
Case Example – Ikeja
A 62-year-old taxi driver in Ikeja complained of glare from oncoming headlights. A diagnostic exam at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja identified cataracts. He was referred to a surgical specialist, and following treatment, his ability to drive at night safely was restored.
3. Genetic Night Blindness (Retinitis Pigmentosa)
This inherited condition causes gradual rod cell degeneration, leading to increasing night blindness.
Case Example – Ikeja GRA:
A 28-year-old teacher from Ikeja GRA had struggled with night vision since childhood. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, specialised tests confirmed retinitis pigmentosa, and he began a long-term care plan with vision support aids.
4. Diabetes and Night Vision Loss
Diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels in the retina and impairs night vision and contrast sensitivity.
Case Example – Ikeja:
A middle-aged woman from Ikeja noticed difficulty driving in dim light. She was diagnosed with early diabetic retinopathy during her eye exam at SpecSMART. Improved glucose control and follow-up care helped stabilise her night vision.
5. Myopia (Short-Sightedness)
Uncorrected myopia reduces clarity in low light. Many people don’t realise how much better they could see—especially at night, with proper glasses.
Case Example – Ikeja GRA:
A university student found it hard to see clearly on poorly lit roads. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, he was prescribed anti-glare glasses, and his night driving vision improved immediately.
Environmental & Lifestyle Factors in Lagos
- Poor Street Lighting: Many parts of Ikeja, even GRA, are dimly lit at night—making strong night vision critical.
- Excessive Screen Use: Screen time can reduce contrast sensitivity and strain the eyes, especially among students and office workers.
- Smoking & Alcohol: These affect retinal health and contrast sensitivity, worsening night vision over time.
How to Improve Your Night Vision in Nigeria
1. Nutritional Adjustments
- Eat foods rich in vitamin A, e.g., carrots, eggs, spinach, and liver
- Add omega-3s and zinc to support retinal function
2. Anti-Reflective Glasses for Night Driving
- Reduce glare and improve clarity when driving at night
- Helpful for those with myopia or astigmatism
3. Regular Eye Exams at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
- Night vision issues are often overlooked. A proper exam can reveal conditions early.
- We provide diagnostic care and trusted referrals where surgical or specialist treatment is needed.
4. Manage Chronic Conditions
- Control diabetes and blood pressure to protect your retinal blood vessels
- Early cataract detection ensures timely referrals before vision worsens
Book Your Night Vision Test in Ikeja
Noticing night-time glare? Trouble reading road signs in the dark?
Visit SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja and Ikoyi, for advanced night vision testing and complete diagnostic eye care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I improve my night vision naturally?
A: Yes—through proper nutrition, protective eyewear, and treating underlying conditions like cataracts or diabetes.
Q: How often should I get my eyes tested for night vision problems?
A: Ideally, once a year—especially if you drive regularly at night or have diabetes.
Q: Does SpecSMART Eye Clinic offer surgery?
A: We focus on diagnostic care and testing. If surgery is needed, we’ll refer you to trusted specialists for further treatment.