Our exposure to blue light from electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers has increased significantly as technology advances. Blue light has been linked to various eye problems, including digital eyestrain, macular degeneration, and disrupted sleep patterns. Therefore, it is essential to take proactive measures to protect our eyes from blue light damage.
If you're concerned about your blue light exposure and its impact on your eye health, schedule an appointment at South Coast Optometry. Our Costa Mesa optometrists can evaluate your eyes and recommend the best protection methods.
Eye Exams for Blue Light Damage
Regular eye exams are crucial to maintain good eye health and prevent potential damage caused by blue light exposure. Dr. Quon and Yoo will evaluate your eyes and determine if damage has occurred. They use specialized tests like the Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) and Blue Light Contrast Sensitivity Tests.
Blue Light Contrast Sensitivity Test
The Blue Light Contrast Sensitivity Test assesses your ability to distinguish shades of blue. Using a blue light, which is known to cause eyestrain and discomfort, the test determines how well your eyes can adjust to this light. This test helps identify any eyestrain or discomfort caused by blue light exposure and provides valuable information regarding underlying eye conditions that may contribute to these symptoms.
Drs. Quon or Yoo can then recommend a personalized prevention or treatment plan to help protect your eyes from blue light damage.
Protecting Your Eyes From Blue Light Exposure
Advancements in blue light-blocking technology have led to various effective solutions for protecting your eyes.
Reduce Screen Time
If your job requires prolonged screen time, consider incorporating more physical activity into your routine and practicing the 20-20-20 rule throughout the day. This involves taking a break from your screen every 20 minutes and looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. It helps reduce eye strain and allows your eyes to rest and recover.
In addition, it's a good idea to limit your overall screen time, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with your natural sleep cycle, making falling and staying asleep more difficult.
Blue Light-Filtering Glasses
Blue light filtering glasses have a special lens coating that filters out blue light, allowing only harmless light to pass through. Some blue light filtering glasses filter out a specific range of blue light wavelengths, while others may block all blue light from entering the eye. Depending on your needs, you can choose from various options that provide different levels of protection.
By wearing these glasses, you can reduce your exposure to blue light and protect your eyes from the harmful effects of digital device use. They are especially beneficial for individuals working long hours on computers or other digital devices.
High-Contrast Lenses
High-contrast lenses enhance color perception and provide sharper visual clarity. They are particularly useful for individuals with trouble seeing colors or who experience low contrast sensitivity, which can be a common issue as we age. High-contrast lenses block certain wavelengths of light and selectively filter others, allowing for better differentiation between colors and objects.
While blue light glasses specifically block blue light wavelengths, high-contrast lenses can provide more comprehensive protection by blocking a wider range of harmful light frequencies. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Maui Jim
Maui Jim is a well-known eyewear brand that offers a unique lens technology called Maui High Contrast™. This lens technology enhances color and contrast by selectively filtering certain light, including harmful blue light while allowing others to pass through. This filtering process enhances contrast and sharpens colors, making objects appear clearer and more defined.
Supplements
Supplements can help protect your eyes from blue light damage. Certain nutrients, like lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C and E, can benefit eye health. For more information, refer to our previous article on how supplements can help with blue light and eye health.
Buy Blue Light-Filtering Glasses and More!
Whether you’re experiencing eye strain or discomfort, or are concerned about your exposure to blue light, we are here to help. At South Coast Optometry, our optometrists can assess your eyes and recommend a personalized prevention or treatment plan. Book an appointment at our Costa Mesa practice today!