After using computer...can't see at night

[mikev1]

When I use the computer for a period of time at night before bed, I turn off the lights and I'll have a huge spot where I can't see anything in the dark for about 5-10 mins, then it goes

It's almost like a huge spot where I can't see anything out of one eye

It doesn't occur in any particular eye, just one or the other

I'm myopic, and our family hasn't had a history of eye problems apart from Myopia

I'm 18 also, and this only occurs when i've been on the computer, when I haven't, it doesn't happen

Is it due to excessive computer use? Or eye strain or something

Thanks

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear mikev1,

You might be experiencing the natural loss of central vision which occurs when one goes from a place which is well lit to one which is dark. This occurs as our eyes take time to adapt to the change in light from our central vision using to our peripheral vision.  I would recommend that you see an eyeMD to confirm whether this is what you are describing and that you do not have anything else.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[justinstb]

this is normal,it is just the cone cells in your eyes adjusting after a bright stimulus and because you turn the lights off and you are in darkness the retina is just readjusting.
Much the same as looking at a bright light bulb at night.