The Digital Age Dilemma
Are your eyes dry and tired at the end of a long day of working on the computer? You’re not alone. In fact, computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain, results from overuse of digital devices and screens. Symptoms can include dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision. The worst part is that it can also result in performance impacts. In one study by Workplace Intelligence, workers reported spending over 99.2 hours per week in front of a screen, resulting in a reduction in productivity and eye discomfort. In recent years, blue light and computer glasses have become a popular remedy claiming to minimize the impacts of blue light from screens, helping to alleviate symptoms of computer vision syndrome. However, the science is slightly more nuanced, requiring a close look.
What is Blue Light?
The visible light spectrum is comprised of small bands of electromagnetic waves that are visible to the human eye. The other electromagnetic waves, such as infrared and radio waves cannot be seen by humans without special equipment. Longer waves emit less energy, such as red light, while shorter waves emit more energy, like blue light. Blue light is everywhere, including computer and laptop screens, fluorescent lights and light bulbs, and even naturally from the sun. Blue light from the sun far exceeds that emitted from screens and is the most harmful source of blue light. UV rays can have harmful effects on your eyes overtime if they are not properly protected. Blue light from screens, on the other hand, is not as powerful and is not likely to cause permanent damage. More likely, excessive exposure may cause digital eye strain.
How Do Blue Light Glasses Work?
Since it was generally thought that reducing the amount of blue light from screens could reduce symptoms of CSV, many blue light blocking glasses have flooded the market, claiming to reduce strain by blocking blue light. The glasses may help mitigate CSV symptoms by reducing visual noise, filtering out the blue light so your eyes can focus more easily. Additionally, blue light blocking glasses may soften the screen harshness due to the subtle tint of the glasses, acting like dimmers. Beyond just blocking blue light, blue light filter glasses may improve contrast and comfort for some viewers, allowing them to see more clearly without straining.
While the blue light glasses benefits are real and can be effective at reducing blue light, it is generally agreed upon that the blue light emitted from devices before bed is not enough to significantly disrupt sleep. No matter what the studies now say, it is worth consulting with an eye care professional to get their opinion. Most likely, they have worked with hundreds of patients and can attest to the effectiveness of blue light glasses for certain symptoms or situations or prescribe the best blue light glasses.
What Causes Someone to Wear Blue Light Glasses?
Anyone can wear blue light glasses, but some people may be more receptive and more likely to experience the benefits of blue light glasses, including:
- Those suffering from CSV and dealing with the annoying symptoms of digital eye strain that include headaches, blurry vision, and dry or irritated eyes.
- Those whose jobs require eye protection from either 8+ hours of screen time or individuals that work with lasers or other devices that emit high levels of harmful light.
- Children that are on screens to protect their developing eyes and ensure they do not experience sleep disruptions due to screen time.
Tips to Reduce Computer Vision Syndrome
Since CSV is caused by how we use screens, not necessarily by the light itself, there are steps patients can take to protect their eyes from eye strain. Working on screens all day means we blink less and must focus continuously. When working with screens:
- Practice the 20-20-20 rule, which means every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps to refocus and clear the eyes.
- Fix your lighting to make sure there are no glares on your screen and there is ample light for your working needs
- Blink more often to keep your eyes moist. When the eyes are moist, they are less likely to become irritated or dry.
- Adjust your screen to eye height and position it at least 20-28 inches away from your face.
- Invest in a quality pair of the best blue light blocking glasses or clarity blue glasses to see if they also help to reduce strain occasionally.
When to See a Professional at OCLI Vision
Blue light glasses can help mitigate some of the impacts of CSV, but they are not a cure all. It’s important to practice good eye habits when using screens often to protect your eyes and your sleep. If your blue light glasses do not seem to be making a difference in your worsening eye strain, contact your nearest OCLI Vision office to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor who can help pinpoint your problem and treat it. Don’t wait until your eyes hurt every day, schedule an eye appointment today rather than searching for blue light glasses near me.