Electromagnetic energy surrounds the earth, traveling in waves. Blue light mainly comes from the sun, but LED and digital screens can also emit it. Some people believe that blue light from artificial sources can harm the eyes. As people spend hours on their computers and other digital devices, there is increasing concern about blue light. 

Understanding Blue Light 

Various light waves travel around the earth, some longer than others. The longest ones include radio, infrared, microwaves, and ultraviolet waves. The shortest ones include X-rays and gamma rays. Most electromagnetic waves are invisible, but some can be detected. 

The visible light waves vary from 380 to 700 nanometers. Longer waves transmit less energy. Blue light emits short, high-energy waves. They are slightly less powerful and are longer than UV waves. High-energy blue light waves can be harmful to the eyes. 

What Emits Blue Light?

Blue light is all around the atmosphere. The sun and incandescent and fluorescent bulbs produce blue light. The widespread use of digital devices means that people are exposed to blue light more than ever. 

Computers, laptops, tablets, cell phones, flat-screen TVs, and other devices depend on light-emitting diode (LED) technology. The longer you spend using the devices, the greater your risk of exposure.

Blue Light and the Eyes

The eyes have structures that help keep out certain light waves. The cornea and eye lens protect the retina from harmful UV rays. Unfortunately, the structures do not keep out blue light. 

Eye health specialists have expressed concern about the effects of blue light exposure from digital devices. The post-pandemic period has seen a surge in people using digital screens. They spend hours on the devices and often view them at close range. Unfortunately, there is limited research on the extent of damage due to the unavailability of long-term studies. 

Digital Eyestrain

Studies suggest your screen time may be affecting your vision. Using digital devices for long periods can cause eye strain (DES). Research shows that people blink less frequently when using devices. It means the eyes receive less moisture, causing dryness. 

Blue light-emitting digital screens can cause symptoms including sore or irritated eyes, dry eyes, headaches, eye fatigue, and facial muscle fatigue. Blue light scatters easily, which can make eye focus difficult. The eyes see the light as poorly focused, leading to eyestrain.  

AMD 

Studies show a link between blue light and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among individuals over 50. The condition occurs when the back eye structure (macula) is damaged. 

It causes the inability to see the center field of vision. Objects and details in the central line of vision become blurry and difficult to see. However, the peripheral vision is unaffected. A few studies suggest blue light may increase the risk of AMD.

Blue light can affect sleep, which in turn affects overall eye health. You can limit blue light exposure by practicing the 20-20-20 rule during digital device use. Remember to blink frequently and ensure you keep your eyes moist. Adjust the blue light on your devices and keep your eyeglass prescription updated. 

For more on blue light and your eyes and how screen time affects vision, visit Look! Optometry at our Manhattan Beach, California office. Call (310) 796-5665 to schedule an appointment today.