In the Dark on Blue Light?
With the average person spending seven hours a day on their electronic devices it’s no surprise the growing concern surrounding blue light exposure and how it may be affecting our eye health. Add to that, Covid-19 has fueled the use of digital devices with online learning, working from home, binge watching netflix, etc. Let’s face it we’re all on digital devices more than we used to be so let’s shed some light on blue light.
What is Blue Light & How It Affects Us...
Blue light is a normal part of the visual light spectrum and it is found everywhere. Many people often associate blue light with computers and phones, however the largest source of blue light is sunlight. Other sources include LED light, fluorescent light, flat-screen TVs, computer monitors, and the screens of all digital devices. Concerns have grown from claims that prolonged exposure to blue light from screens is blinding us but there is NO scientific evidence that blue light from digital devices causes damage to your eyes!
What blue light does affect is the body’s circadian rhythm, our natural sleep and wake cycle. During the day, blue light wakes us up and stimulates us but prolonged exposure to blue light at night can affect melatonin release and thus affect your sleep cycle.
Blue Light & Digital Eye Strain...
So if blue light exposure from screens doesn’t cause ocular damage then why are people experiencing eye pain when staring at the screen?
The discomfort some people experience after looking at screens is most likely Computer Vision Syndrome, also called digital eye strain, which describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged digital screen use. Symptoms include eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and neck or shoulder pain. The good news is eye strain does not cause lasting damage and is easily preventable.
Digital eye strain is NOT caused by blue light. Instead, the symptoms of digital eye strain are linked to how and how long we use our digital devices.
Tips To Combat Digital Eye Strain
A pair of prescription glasses with a good quality anti reflective coating will reduce eye strain in those suffering from eye strain, headaches or blurry vision.
Use the 20-20 Rule. After 20 minutes of exposure take a 20 second break and look into the distance for 20 seconds to allow the eyes a chance to refocus.
Position your monitor so it's slightly below eye level and keep your computer roughly 25” or arms length away.
Remember to blink.
Make regular eye exams.
What About Blue Light Blocking Glasses?
Blue light blocking glasses claim to filter out blue light from computers, smartphones and tablets and although they may have value in regulating your sleep cycle they DO NOT protect against eye strain. So before you jump on the blue light blocking bus and purchase a pair of glasses consider trying these tips to improve your beauty sleep.
Tips To Reduce Blue Light Exposure and Get More Z’s
The best way to avoid sleep disruption is to avoid using screens one to two hours before bed.
Utilize blue light filters for electronic devices. Mant devices have built-in features to filter out blue light. There are also third-party filtering apps available for smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Set your alarm. Remind yourself when to shut down with a daily alarm set before bedtime.
Remember, the sun is the largest source of blue light. Always wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays whenever outside.
If you’ve been experiencing eye strain symptoms or have more questions about blue light we’d love to help you! Just call or stop by our optical boutique at Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach. 850.608.3135
Protect Those Peepers!
