Road lights are necessary for drivers at night, but they can have an unintended effect on the human body. Research has shown that exposure to artificial lights at night can cause insomnia and other health problems.

In this article, we will explore why road lights can cause insomnia and what can be done to mitigate the problem.

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep. It is a common problem that affects up to 30% of the general population.

Insomnia can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, medications, and health conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain.

How do road lights affect sleep?

Artificial lights at night can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. Exposure to light at night suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep.

This can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to insomnia and other sleep problems.

Road lights emit a type of light called blue light, which is particularly effective at suppressing melatonin production.

This is because the human eye is most sensitive to blue light, and exposure to blue light at night can signal the brain to stay awake.

What can be done to reduce the impact of road lights on sleep?

There are a number of things that individuals and communities can do to reduce the impact of road lights on sleep:.

Use blackout curtains or shades

One of the easiest ways to reduce the impact of road lights on sleep is to use blackout curtains or shades. These are designed to block out all light, including road lights, which can help promote a more restful sleep.

Use warm-colored bulbs

Another way to reduce the impact of road lights on sleep is to use warm-colored bulbs, such as those with a yellow or orange hue.

These emit less blue light than standard fluorescent or LED bulbs, which can help reduce the suppression of melatonin production.

Install shielded lights

Communities can also install shielded lights, which are designed to direct light downwards instead of upwards or outwards. This can help reduce light pollution and minimize the impact of road lights on nearby homes and businesses.

Advocate for better lighting policies

Finally, individuals and communities can advocate for better lighting policies. This can include encouraging the use of shielded lights, reducing the overall amount of lighting, and implementing lighting curfews.

Conclusion

Road lights are a necessary part of modern transportation, but they can have unintended consequences for sleep.

By understanding the impact of road lights on sleep and taking steps to mitigate the problem, individuals and communities can help promote better sleep and overall health.