Most people today are spending more time using digital screens. One reason for this is that working online has become more common in the last two years than ever before. Remote learning has also meant people spend more than eight hours using computers, tablet screens, and smartphones, which is unhealthy.
No wonder then that the increased exposure to blue light has led to eye issues such as eyestrain, dry eye, and headaches. Many people believe that blue light lenses can help, and here is what they do.
Computers, tablets, smartphones, and other digital devices emit blue light, a shortwave radiation in the visible color spectrum. People who spend more than two continuous hours using a digital device can experience eye issues.
Blue light lenses filter out the blue light produced by the devices. The lenses have a surface coating or filtering materials that block most of the blue light. Manufacturers say that the glasses can help prevent eye damage.
There is increasing fear among digital device users that blue light exposure can damage the eyes permanently. While most of the claims are still unsubstantiated, people are looking for solutions. Research does not support claims that blue light can increase the risk of macular degeneration.
However, there is a link between blue light and eyestrain. Blue light lenses can help protect the eyes from the strain that can affect the sleep cycle. Poor sleep can lead to health issues.
Experts believe that the main cause of digital eye strain is how individuals use their screens. Screen-related issues include failing to blink frequently and placing the screen too close to the eyes. These issues lead to symptoms such as dry eye and eyestrain.
Using blue light lenses before sleep can help improve the quality and quantity of sleep. The glasses can help people fall asleep faster and get longer, high-quality sleep. Research has shown that wearing glasses also helps improve work performance.
While some believe that blue light lenses do not do much good, many wearers believe otherwise. Many individuals who have tried them find that they enjoy more comfort, and the lenses offer relief. Experts agree that blue light glasses do not harm the eyes.
More people are wearing blue light glasses to counteract the effects of the light emitted by digital screens. The best blue light glasses are those with anti-glare lenses. The lenses are added to your choice of frame.
Some habits can help users avoid eyestrain. Place your digital screen 25 inches or an arm’s length away from you, and slightly downwards from your eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule when using your device. It involves looking at something 20 feet away, every 20 minutes, for 20 seconds.
Adjust the lighting in the room to enhance comfort and use a screen filter if necessary. If you have dry eyes, using artificial tears can help add moisture to the eyes.
Patients who believe that their eye or vision symptoms are related to exposure to blue light can benefit from the glasses. You can get prescription glasses that have lenses that filter the blue light. If you want to start wearing blue light glasses, talk to your optometrist to get recommendations.
For more on blue light lenses, visit Norwood Family Eye Care at our office in Bartlett, Tennessee. You can also call 901-617-8095 to book an appointment today.