Best Blue Light Glasses in Arlington Heights
In today’s digital world, optometrists everywhere are hearing this question more and more: ‘Are blue light glasses worth it?’
Although some controversy surrounds blue light’s impact on eye health, there’s enough scientific evidence to offer a reliable answer.
What is Blue Light?
Blue light is a high-energy, short-wavelength light on the visible spectrum. Blue light is mostly emitted from the sun (hence, the reason our skies appear blue) but is also released by indoor light sources and digital screens.
Our eyes and brain interpret blue light rays as a wake-up signal because they stimulate alertness.
It's worrying, as more and more people stare at digital screens throughout the day and often into the night.
Is Blue Light Harmful To Our Eyes?
Because blue light has a higher frequency and energy than other colors of light, it can easily penetrate the structures of our eyes and reach the retina, the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye.
Studies, such as the one published in Integrative Biology (2017), found that blue light does have negative effects on human retinal cells and increases oxidative damage—even at frequencies similar to ones emitted by digital screens.
Other research has linked blue light exposure to reduced sleep quality, especially when using a digital device at night.
Prolonged blue light exposure can also lead to digital eye strain, eye fatigue and dry eye syndrome.
For this reason, blue light lens filters and glasses were created to offset the negative effects of blue light overexposure.
How Blue Light Glasses Can Help
Better circadian rhythm
A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health (2015) found that teenagers who wore blue-blocking glasses in the evening hours had better circadian rhythms than peers who didn’t use blue light glasses. Circadian rhythms regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
Reduces eye fatigue
Another study published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Ophthalmology (2015) suggested that blue-blocking glasses or lenses may be effective in reducing eye fatigue.
Reduced symptoms of computer vision syndrome
A survey published in the Journal of Medical Imaging (2019) found that radiology residents who wore blue light filtering glasses experienced significantly reduced symptoms of computer vision syndrome (or digital eye strain).
What’s The Bottom Line?
Blue light-blocking glasses can be effective in improving sleep quality and lessening symptoms of computer vision syndrome and eye fatigue when staring at a screen.
If you spend a lot of time in front of a digital screen, speak with your eye doctor to determine if you could benefit from blue-blocking glasses or lenses.
To schedule an eye exam or learn more about what we offer, call Palermo Eye Care in Arlington Heights today!
Q: In addition to wearing blue-blocking glasses, what are some other tips for relieving digital eye strain?
- A: Take frequent breaks from screen use and try to stick to the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, shift your gaze to something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Consider putting a blue light filter on your computer or phone screens. Also, try to avoid screen time at least 2 hours before bed in order to feel less awake. Lastly, speak with your optometrist. If you or a family member has any symptoms of digital eye strain, we can help.
Q: Can children and teens benefit from wearing blue light glasses?
- A: Yes! Children and teens who use digital screens for schoolwork and recreational activities on a daily basis may experience symptoms of eye fatigue or eye strain without even knowing it. Blue-blocking glasses may be the key to relieving their headaches, blurred vision or improving their circadian rhythms. Speak with us about blue-blocking glasses or lens filters for your child today.
Quality Frames For Prescription Eyeglasses & Computer Glasses. Visit Palermo Eye Care for an eye exam and eyeglasses that match your style.