Blue_Light_parent_diagram1We all know to take breaks from the computer screen to reduce eye strain, dry eyes and prevent fatigue. New research, however, is showing that certain wavelengths of light emitted from everything from your phone to your computer to your television can cause harm, not just in the short term with taxing your vision, but alarmingly can lead to neural damage in the likes of Age Related Macular Degeneration.

UV light is dangerous. It comes mainly from sun exposure so we wear our UV protected sunglasses and wide brim hats to protect our eyes. Many contact lenses now also provide high levels of UV protection. This is important and we do what we need to to protect our eyes, but right next to the UV spectrum of light is High Energy Visible Light (HEV) that shines right into your eyes as you stare intently at your screens. More if you work in an office light with compact fluorescent lighting or LED lighting.

HEV is a part of the visual spectrum of light where the shorter wavelengths (415-455 nm) can cause
1. Increased eyestrain
2. Night vision issues
3. Disruption of your circadian rhythms leading to restless sleep
4. Deeper permeation into the eye than UV light causing retina cell death.

Avoiding computer screens and LED lighting is near impossible so thankfully, developments have been made to help block HEV from entering your eyes. Coatings and materials are now available for eyeglasses that are affordable and look great (no yellow lenses).

Please contact me with any questions about HEV or products to protect yourself against the negative effects of it. I wear it and I honestly feel the difference in my visual function and energy levels.

One Comment

  • Scott Surber says:

    I am not only interested in learning about this and how to protect my eyes better–I work 6 days a week on the computer–but I also am feeling my current glasses are not as effective at correcting my vision as they have been. So, how much is an eye exam for glasses? How uch lead time do I need for an appointment?
    I need progressive lenses and I get a second pair of distance vision only for baseball and ohter sports I play.
    I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
    cheers!
    scott

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