MyEyewear2go Warns Bluelight Wreaks Havoc on Your Eyes
Middlesex, NJ, May 23, 2016 (Newswire.com) - Americans love their mobile devices. Laptops, smart phones, and tablets are a constant in our lives. In fact, consumers have become so attached to their cell phones, it has even spawned a new medical term, phantom vibration syndrome (the feeling that your mobile device is ringing or vibrating when it's not.) However, there is another issues with our addiction to mobile devices that is a major concern for eye doctors across the nation. The increased use of mobile technology has led to a drastic increase in harmful blue light exposure.
Part of the visible light spectrum, blue light gives off a blue color. It is the highest and therefore more harmful energy wavelength of visible light. Blue light energy penetrates to the very back of the eye all the way through the eyes' natural filters. Blue light is especially harmful because its cumulative effects damage the retina and increase the development of age-related macular degeneration. Even worse, blue does not only damage your vision, but also your overall health.
Is Blue Light a New Phenomenon?
Blue light is nothing new. It is a part of the natural light spectrum. In the past, sunlight has traditionally been the largest source of blue light. On average, 25-30% of sunlight is composed of blue light. Artificial sources of blue light include energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs, LED lights, and electronic devices including televisions, cell phones, computers, and tablets.
I've Heard Blue Light Elevates Your Mood So Why Should I Be Concerned?
Studies have shown that blue light helps boost alertness, heighten reaction time, and increase the feeling of wellbeing. The real issue lies in the amount of blue light exposure. As society has become more dependent on mobile technology, the amount of exposure to blue light the average person receives each day has increased exponentially. As exposure increases over time, so does the likelihood of permanent damage to the eyes. The effects of blue light exposure are cumulative. Prolonged exposure to blue light leads to eyestrain, headaches, physical and mental fatigue. Furthermore, increased exposure to blue light at night time, decreases the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that influences circadian rhythms. Not only has lower melatonin been linked to cancer, but increased night time light exposure has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
What Can Be Done To Limit the Damage Caused by Blue Light Exposure?
There are steps you can take to help limit the harmful effects of blue light. First, you should make a conscious effort to limit your use of digital devices. Unfortunately, in our technologically dependent world, severely limiting your use of television and other digital devices is not always possible. Give your eyes frequent breaks. When in the middle of working on your laptop or smart phone, frequently look away. Try to focus on something off in the distance for several seconds before returning to your work. At the very least, users should limit their use before bedtime. Cutting back on night time digital use, leads to better sleep and a more productive day.
Secondly, talk to your eye doctor about lenses that filter out blue light. These lenses have little-to-no tint, provide sharper vision, and help to minimize direct blue light exposure.
In addition, consider using dim red nights as night lights in your home. Red light has the least power meaning it is less likely to shift the body's circadian rhythm and suppress melatonin production.
For more information on protecting your eyes from the dangers of blue light, contact us. Our wide variety of quality eyewear ensures you will always find a pair of glasses perfect for your needs.
Source: Phillips Safety Products