Over the years, our reliance on digital devices has increased dramatically. Even if you aren’t using screens for work or school, our society spends hours per day staring at digital devices, like smartphones and televisions. Have you ever wondered how all that screen time affects the health of your eyes? Keep reading to learn about blue light exposure from digital devices and how it may affect your overall eye health from the team at Eye2Eye Optometry. 

What is Blue Light?

Before we begin, let’s explain what blue light is first. Blue light is a short wavelength color in the light spectrum that can be seen by the human eye. Nearly one-third of all visible light is blue light. Because blue light has a short wavelength, it produces larger amounts of energy. Human eyes are unable to effectively filter blue light, so any exposure to blue light passes through the eye to the retina. Sunlight is considered a natural source of blue light. Artificial blue light examples include LED lights, fluorescent lights, computer screens, smartphones, and other digital devices. 

Is Blue Light Good or Bad for Your Eyes?

Like most things, there are pros and cons to blue light exposure. As humans, we rely on sunlight to adjust our body’s circadian rhythm. Some blue light exposure has been shown to boost alertness and brain function. 

Of course, you can always “overdo” it when it comes to excessive blue light exposure. While long-term effects are still unknown, a great deal of research has been done on the harmful effects of prolonged screen exposure to digital devices. One symptom of excessive blue light exposure is digital eye strain. Studies have also found that constant exposure to blue light can increase your chances of developing serious eye conditions, including macular degeneration and cataracts. While watching digital devices, we tend to blink less, which can lead to digital eye strain or dry eye syndrome. Both of these eye conditions can cause uncomfortable symptoms like blurry vision, headaches, itchy eyes, and more.

Here’s How to Reduce Blue Light Exposure

While not all blue light exposure is harmful, we do recommend limiting your daily exposure to digital devices to protect your eye health. Follow the 20/20/20 rule: for every 20 minutes of looking at a digital device, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. We also recommend adjusting the lighting on your digital device, so you aren’t exposing your eyes to the maximum amount of light and glare from your screen. Set up a comprehensive eye exam to discuss any concerns you may have about digital eye strain or blue light exposure.

Visit Eye2Eye Optometry

Do you have questions about digital eye strain and blue light? Eye2Eye is here to help. Eye2Eye is Alexandria’s go-to for personalized eyecare and eyewear with an emphasis on specialized services such as myopia, custom contact lenses, and dry eyes. Our experienced staff provides honest and comprehensive eye care services to our community using the latest technology and products. We are committed to caring for Everything Eyes ® and look forward to having you visit our clinics. Schedule your appointment request and our patient coordinator will contact you to schedule your visit Eye2Eye through our easy contact form.