Did You Know?

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Blue Light

Did you know that 60% of people spend more than six hours a day in front of a digital device? That sounds like a whole lot of time, but when you consider replying to emails at breakfast, social media surfing on break, and watching your favorite TV show in the evening, it adds up pretty fast! Your digital device is exposing your eyes to harmful blue light.

In addition, 40% of working adults have a job that requires them to spend all day on some form of a digital device. And if that weren’t bad enough, most buildings use CFLs and LEDs that emit the harmful blue light rays, too. When you factor in sunlight, it is virtually impossible to not be exposed to blue light. Overexposure has even been linked to eye-related diseases like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. No wonder people are concerned about blue light!

Tips to help reduce exposure:

  1. Dim the lights—Tone down the bright fluorescents in the evening to help cut out the harsh blue light. Reduce exposure by dimming the brightness of electronic devices. Wear 100% UV-protected sunglasses outside (even on cloudy days!) to shield your eyes from the sun.
  2. Take a break—When on the computer, regularly pause and look elsewhere to relieve your eyes and reduce the risk of getting computer eye strain. Follow the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, stare at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Cease using electronic devices at least one hour before bed.

Sometimes the easiest way to combat eyestrain due to blue light is to invest in a pair of blue-blocking eyewear. These lenses protect your eyes from high-energy blue light rays, improve depth and color perception, visual acuity and night vision, and reduce glare and reflections.

Interested in learning more? Schedule an appointment or give our office a call. We’d love to hear from you!