Living in the digital age, many people dedicate a significant amount of time to using smartphones, laptops, tablets, modern TVs, and other computer screens. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential adverse effects that the emitted light from these screens can have on your eyes.
Although the long-term consequences are still not fully understood, it’s clear that excessive screen time can lead to discomfort in the eyes, including soreness, fatigue, and blurriness.
At Complete Eye Care in Belmont, we understand the importance of protecting your eyes from direct exposure to blue light. That’s why we offer advanced blue light-blocking lenses that are specifically designed to address this concern. Contact us today to get blue light protection.
Understanding Blue Light
Blue light is a type of high-energy visible light that is emitted by the sun and screens of our digital devices.
When your eyes are exposed to blue light for extended periods, it can result in eye strain, disrupt your sleep patterns, and can potentially cause serious, long-term damage.
Sources of Blue Light
Sunlight is the largest source of blue light. Other sources include:
- Computer monitors
- Tablet screens
- Smartphones
- LED lights
- Fluorescent lights
- CFL (Compact Fluorescent Light) bulbs
- Flat-screen LED televisions
The Dangers of Blue Light
1. Macular Degeneration
Blue light is a risk factor for macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans over the age of 60. Low macular pigment density may increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by allowing greater blue light damage.
2. Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding of the lens in the eye. There is some evidence that exposure to blue light may increase the risk of developing cataracts. One recent study found that people who used computers for more than four hours a day had a higher risk of developing cataracts.
3. Digital Eye Strain
Blue light can cause eye strain, making it difficult for the eyes to focus. Symptoms may include blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, and neck pain, especially for those who spend extended periods on computers.
In addition to the strain directly caused by blue light, there is additional strain on the eyes due to prolonged mid-distance viewing and lower quality and quantity of blinks.
4. Retinal Damage
Overexposure to blue light can damage the retinal cells, potentially leading to vision issues such as age-related macular degeneration.
5. Sleep Issues
Excess blue light exposure at night disrupts the circadian rhythms that regulate sleep patterns, making it difficult for you to fall asleep and leading to insomnia and daytime fatigue.
6. Cancer
Recent experimental evidence at Harvard University suggests a correlation between lower melatonin levels and the frequency of cancer. Another study published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal found that exposure to blue light at night was associated with an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer.
Further research is needed to fully understand the connection between blue light and cancer. However, existing evidence raises concerns about potential health risks from excessive blue light exposure, especially at night.
Protect Yourself from Blue Light With Blue Light Glasses
To protect your eyes from blue light, consider purchasing glasses with blue-light-blocking lenses.
At Complete Eye Care in Belmont, we offer state-of-the-art blue light-blocking lenses and lens coatings and we can help you find the right one to help you alleviate any negative effects of prolonged screen usage. Contact us today.
Blue Light Blocking Lenses in Belmont, Gastonia, and Charlotte
Our lenses at Complete Eye Care are designed to protect your eyes from exposure to blue light and allow you to use your digital devices more comfortably.
We offer Nikon SeeCoat Blue and Hoya Recharge lenses, considered the two best options on the market to date.
Nikon See Coat Blue
The Nikon SeeCoat Blue is an innovative device that cuts and reflects blue light and UV light. The lens helps to reduce blue light and glare thereby improving contrast on digital screens. It also helps to provide sustainable eye health by automatically adjusting to outdoor light conditions. Furthermore, the Nikon SeeCoat Blue helps in blocking the harmful UV rays of the sun. With these lenses, you can be assured that your eyes are well protected, whether you are indoors or outdoors.
Hoya Recharge
The Hoya Recharge is another blue light-blocking lens that we offer. The device offers patients enhanced blue light filtration coupled with additional protection for the eyes. It is the first anti-reflective treatment that also ensures eye comfort and safe night driving.
The Hoya Recharge can help reduce blue light and glare when operating the computer or other digital devices. Even if you have digital eye strain (DES) or computer vision syndrome (CVS), Hoya Recharge is the ideal solution for you.
Other Ways To Protect Yourself From Blue Light
- Limit screen time, particularly before bed.
- Take regular breaks from staring at digital screens. Looking at objects 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes can reduce eye strain.
- Add warm lighting to your home and office to lower the proportion of blue light.
Get In Touch With Us Today
For more information about how our innovative blue light-blocking lenses can help you, get in touch with us today.
By choosing our lenses, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your eye health, enhance your visual comfort, and enjoy your digital devices with greater peace of mind.
Our optometrists and opticians will be happy to speak with you and recommend the most suitable lens for you.