Should You Worry About Blue Light?

Blue light from digital devices can have a negative effect on an individual, however it is not the eyes that are affected – you will not go blind from exposure to blue light from digital devices and there is no scientific evidence to cause concern.  On the other hand, one may experience discomfort from staring at a screen too long or using a device for long periods at a time.  This discomfort is likely “digital eye strain” because we blink less when looking at the screen and our eyes may become dry.

The body does react to blue light in other important ways – it affects our circadian rhythm which is our natural wake and sleep cycle.  Daytime is when we need to be awake and stimulated, however too much blue light at night makes it hard to get to sleep.  In the article found at this link:  https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/should-you-be-worried-about-blue-light we are advised of the “20-20-20” rule which is:  “every 20 minutes shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.”  Using artificial tears will also refresh your dry eyes.

Are you aware of all the sources of blue light? – some are computer, TV, phone or tablet, fluorescent light and LED light.  Can you guess the largest source of blue light?  It is sunlight.

Now if you are bent to worrying, transfer that worry from blue light to ultraviolet light from the sun.  This ultraviolet light increases risks of eye diseases including cataracts, growths on the eye and cancer.  You should also know that insufficient sunlight exposure in children can affect the growth and development of their vision and could increase the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) in teens and young adults.  Recent studies support this.

Remember; don’t worry about blue light – but pay attention to your exposure to ultraviolet light!