March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, making now the perfect time to talk about one of the most common work-related eye problems: digital eye strain. Also known as computer vision syndrome, digital eye strain is a feeling of visual discomfort experienced after spending several hours in front of a blue light-emitting screen. Here, your reliable eye care center, EyeSite of The Villages, discusses this condition in detail.
Understanding Blue Light
Your expert eye doctor explains that light comprises a spectrum of colors that have different energy levels and wavelengths. On one end are red rays, with long wavelengths and low energy frequencies. The other end holds the blue-violet rays, which have shorter wavelengths and emit greater energy. You encounter blue-violet rays when you’re basking in the sun, watching TV, or looking at your computer or mobile phone.
The Link Between Blue Light and Digital Eye Strain
The composition of blue light makes it easy to penetrate your eyes. With the increasing use of digital technology at work, rates of blue light exposure are growing too. Spending long periods of time in front of your computer can reduce your blinking rate, which in turn may result in dry eyes and eye fatigue. This may also lead to retinal problems, cataracts, and macular degeneration. In addition, studies show that excessive exposure to blue light can prevent melatonin release into your system, leading to sleep-wake cycle disruptions.
How to Manage Digital Eye Strain
The best way to protect your vision is to have regular eye exams. This lets us check your eyes for any blue light-induced changes and provide the necessary treatment. We also advise investing in anti-glare screens for your electronic devices.
In addition, we suggest following the 20-20-20 rule. After every 20 minutes in front of your computer, rest your eyes for 20 seconds on an object 20 feet away. Remember to blink your eyes regularly too.
Finally, we recommend wearing computer eyeglasses, which are specially engineered to filter blue rays away from your retina. If you are already wearing prescription eyewear, your trusted eyeglasses store can upgrade your lenses to incorporate this technology.
For more information about digital eye strain, call us at (352) 674-3937. We provide premier eye care services in The Villages and surrounding areas in Florida.
