The pandemic has been extremely hard on everyone, including our eyes as we’ve been spending more and more time in front of digital devices. You may not even realize it but screens such as TVs, phones, and laptops all contain blue light which can be harmful to the human eyes. Since blue light is a shorter wavelength, they flicker more than shorter wavelengths causing the eye muscles to work harder to process what you see. Studies have shown that exposure to blue light can cause digital eyestrain, fatigue, headaches, and tiredness. You probably have had some of these symptoms before but never thought about what it could be from, but luckily there are now some ways that you can protect your eyes from blue light such as:

• Blue Light Blocking Glasses: Blue light glasses have lenses that absorb blue light and reduce exposure. Using these glasses means that you can use screens, even before bed without getting any of the terrible side effects. Blue light glasses can be used on any device and just need to be worn during screen time.
• System Settings- Creators of these devices realize how blue light can be damaging, so most devices now have the option to make screens have more of an orange tint, or some even have a night mode that can be turned on to turn off blue light before bed.
• Blue Light Screen Protector- Screen protectors are now made with blue light blocking properties that will not affect screen image. This accessory can be very beneficial to your eyes.
• Rest Your Eyes- If you have a job or another reason to be looking at a screen for hours a day, it is very important that you rest your eyes. It has been said that every 20 minutes you should take some time away from your screen and make sure you are blinking. Giving your eyes a break can be beneficial to your eyes and body.

Each option will work differently based on the individual. While filters and settings may be a good solution to put on your device, you will need to make sure it is applied to each of your devices to work properly. If you feel that you may be experiencing any discomfort to your eyes that may be related to blue light, it is important that you make routine visits to your professional optician that can recognize any abnormalities you may be having. At 20/20 Optometry we offer blue light blocking glasses, or we can add blue light blocking to your normal prescription glasses. We recognize the signs and symptoms that come with blue light exposure and take pride in giving you the best family eye care possible. We want you to feel comfortable and not have to worry about any long-term effects. With our help, we can protect your eyes and make you feel better about looking at your screen. If you are located in Santa Clara or San Jose, CA, and are interested in our blue light glasses or are looking for more information on the topic, give us a call today! We are more than happy to help you.