Blue light is everywhere and can negatively impact your vision. But what exactly is this light, and how can you protect your eyes?

What Is Blue Light?

Blue light is a high-energy visible (HEV) light with a wavelength of 400 to 450 nanometers. It comes from many sources – televisions, smartphones, tablets, and computers. Even LED (light emitting diode) and fluorescent light give off blue light. However, the largest source of blue light is the sun.

Impact of Blue Light on Vision

Blue light is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm and promoting alertness during the day. However, prolonged exposure to blue light can have negative effects on our vision and overall health.

Here are some of the potential impacts of blue light on vision:

• Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome – Blue light can penetrate deeper into the eye than other types of light, reaching the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. Therefore, prolonged exposure to blue light emitted by electronic devices can result in digital eye strain. This condition is characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain.
• Macular Degeneration – Studies have suggested that long-term exposure to blue light can damage the retina and may increase the risk of developing macular degeneration, an eye condition that causes the loss of central vision.
• Cataracts – Blue light exposure may also increase the risk of developing cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that can cause blurry vision and vision loss.
• Children and teenagers are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of blue light as their eyes are still developing, and they tend to spend more time on digital devices than adults.

Ways to Protect Your Eyes from Blue Light

To reduce the impact of blue light on vision, you can take the following steps.

Take Frequent Breaks

Taking regular breaks from your screen can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. The 20-20-20 rule is a good one to follow: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

Adjust the Lighting

Avoid using devices in dark or low light conditions as this can increase the amount of blue light exposure. Use ambient lighting instead and adjust the brightness of the screen to reduce glare.

Limit Screen Time

Limit the amount of time you spend on digital devices, especially before bedtime. Avoid using screens for at least an hour before sleeping to maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

Get an Eye Exam

Regular eye exams can help identify vision problems and recommend appropriate eyewear to help reduce eye strain and blue light exposure. Eye doctors can also help monitor your condition.

Good vision is important. It makes it easier to navigate the world, appreciate its beauty, and engage in various activities. It allows us to read, drive, play sports, recognize faces, and enjoy a host of other activities that require visual acuity. So never take your eyes for granted – protect them from harmful blue light exposure.

When eyes are compromised, you can find help at Gregg Family Eye Care. Visit our offices in Secane or North Wales, Pennsylvania. To schedule an appointment, call (610) 831-4300 or (215) 699-2020.