AMERICAN EYE CENTER VIETNAM
BLUE LIGHT – IS IT DANGEROUS?
When looking at any digital screen for long periods of time, whether it is a computer, TV, phone or tablet, you are exposed to BLUE LIGHT. But there is no scientific evidence that blue light from digital devices causes damage to your eye. Therefore
NO, BLUE LIGHT FROM DIGITAL DEVICES IS NOT BLINDING YOU AND IS NOT GOING TO CAUSE BLINDNESS
So why do people feel discomfort after long periods of looking at digital devices?
Most of us blink less when looking at screens, causing eye strain and dry eyes. Looking at screens reduces the normal blink rates of 15-16/min to 5-6/min. Furthermore extended use of digital screens leads to digital eye stains. Therefore the discomfort people feel after looking at screens for long periods of time is due to:
Digital Eye Strain (See article on digital eye strain)
Dry Eyes – From lack of blinking
How else can blue light affect you?
Our circadian rhythm is our natural wake and sleep cycle. During the day, blue light wakes us up and stimulates us. Too much blue light exposure late at night from your phone, tablet or computer can cause difficulty sleeping and insomnia.
What are the other sources of blue light?
People associate blue light with computers and phones, however the largest source of blue light is from the sun ie: sunlight. Other sources include fluorescent light, compact fluorescent light bulbs and LED light. Blue light exposure from screens is much less than the amount of exposure from the sun. Too much exposure to ultraviolet light (which is different from blue light) from the sun increases the risks of eye diseases, including cataracts, growths on the eye and cancer.
Prevention Measures
Protect your eyes against eye strain from blue light by taking regular breaks using the "20-20-20" rule: Every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Use lubricating eye drops to refresh your eyes when they feel dry.
Ensure you have the correct power in your glasses for your purpose (distance, Near and computer vision)
Consider glasses to protect your eyes against blue light – Blue light Filter glasses (see details in following article - Blue Light and Digital Eye Strain)
Wear sunglasses