You undoubtedly understand the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, while you may have heard about blue light, are you aware about how it can affect your eyes? Here’s what you need to know.
What’s Blue Light?
Blue light is a colour in the visible light spectrum that can be seen by the human eye. The different wavelengths of visible light are seen as the colours of the rainbow; they also include red, orange, yellow, green, indigo and violet. Each one has a unique energy and wavelength. Blue light is the shortest of visible wavelengths and therefore has the most energy.
Natural vs. Artificial Blue Light
Sunlight is the primary natural source of blue light. Artificial sources include TV and electronic device screens and fluorescent and LED lighting. Here are some of the adverse effects of too much blue light exposure.
Disrupted sleep Your body uses blue light from the sun to regulate your natural sleep and wake cycles. Blue light is beneficial during the day because it promotes alertness, boosts attention and elevates mood. However, evening exposure to artificial blue light from digital devices may suppress your melatonin production, the hormone that enables you to fall asleep at night.
Digital eye strain Blue light wavelengths flicker more easily than other types of wavelengths. This flickering creates a glare that can reduce visual contrast and affect sharpness and clarity, leading to headaches and mental fatigue. Moreover, many people blink less when looking at screens, leading to eye strain and dry eyes.
How To Protect Your Eyes
The best way to protect your eyes from blue light and ultraviolet light when outside is to wear sunglasses. If you often use electronic devices that emit blue light for work, you may want to invest in a blue light filter. In the evening, setting your smartphone or tablet to night mode may prevent blue light from interfering with your sleep. If you think blue light is affecting your vision, the optometrists at Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. can perform a comprehensive eye exam. They’ll help you determine if blue light blocking glasses or lenses are right for you.
Eyecare Solutions in Edmonton
Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. provides customers of all ages in Edmonton and the surrounding areas with a wide variety of eye care services, including eye exams. We also carry an impressive selection of sunglasses, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our five locations.