Digital Eye Strain, or computer vision syndrome, is becoming an ever-present problem due to the increased screen time we all face in our daily lives. An easy examination and understanding of your daily screen time means improved options for your eye health.
Blue Light
Stepping outdoors into the sunlight, flipping on a light switch indoors, turning on your computer, phone or other digital devices; all of these things result in your eyes being exposed to a variety of visible (and invisible) wavelengths of light that can have a range of effects.
Most people are aware that sunlight contains visible wavelengths and also invisible ultraviolet wavelengths that can tan or burn the skin. Blue light sits close to the ultraviolet wavelengths with a relatively short wavelength.
Short-wavelength, high energy blue light scatters more easily than other visible light, it is not as easily focused. When you’re looking at computer screens and other digital devices that emit blue light, this unfocused visual “noise” reduces contrast and can contribute to digital eye strain.
Research has shown that lenses that block blue light with wavelengths less than 450 nm (blue-violet light) increase contrast. Therefore, glasses with appropriate blue filtering lenses may increase comfort when you’re viewing digital devices for extended periods of time.
It’s well documented that some blue light exposure, particularly that with longer wavelengths, is essential for good health. Research has shown that high-energy visible light boosts alertness, helps memory and cognitive function and elevates mood.
Blue light is also very important in regulating circadian rhythm — the body’s natural sleep/awake cycle. Exposure to blue light during daytime hours helps maintain a healthful circadian rhythm but too much blue light late at night (reading a novel on a tablet computer for an hour or so at bedtime, for example) can disrupt this cycle, potentially reducing sleep quality and daytime fatigue.
Anti-Fatigue Lenses
Visual fatigue is becoming a common problem and affects more people every day. The increasing use of digital devices is having an impact on our visual behaviour. We experience fatigue, headaches and blurred vision, with eyes feeling sore and heavy.
Anti-fatigue lenses have been designed to provide welcome relief to hard-working eyes. Ideal for short-sighted people who wear their spectacles all day. The Anti-fatigue design incorporates a slight additional power at the bottom of the lens, relieving the wearer from eye strain.