Why Can I See Better When I Squint My Eyes?

Most people think that you would see better when your eyes are open wider. This sounds logical. Your eye is getting a broader view of the world, and more light is accessible to produce a clearer image. However, in practice, many people find that the opposite is true.

When we squint, we can often see things a little clearer. That’s why we squint to see the alarm clock when we wake up at 2 am. What is it about squinting that helps us see better than when our eyes are wide open?

What Does Squinting Do to Your Eye?

Even though it doesn’t feel much different, squinting does three things to our eyes that lead to slightly clearer vision.

• Our Eye Lens Changes Shape – The lens of the eye is flexible and changes shape when we squint.
• The Eye Lens Adjusts – Small adjustments in the lens allow us to focus better, much like a camera.
• Less Light Enters the Eye – Less light enters, reducing the impact on the retina and allowing the object we view to look sharper.

Why Do I Have to Squint So Much?

Occasional squinting is normal, even for people with healthy eyes and clear vision. If you are over the age of 40 and have never had to wear prescription glasses, then this is likely normal.

If you find yourself squinting a lot, then you may need to talk to an eye doctor. This could be a sign of eye strain or fatigue. You may need glasses if you also experience:

• Headaches
• Double vision
• Difficulty reading

Other symptoms, like feeling pressure in the eye, seeing halos, and decreased night vision could indicate a developing problem. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey to schedule an ophthalmologist appointment for a comprehensive eye exam to find out if you need glasses and assure that your eyes are healthy.