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With screens now part of almost every aspect of our daily routines, it’s no surprise that more people are asking about the impact of digital device use on eye health. Whether you’re working at a computer, scrolling on your phone, or streaming your favorite show, long hours in front of screens can take a toll on your eyes. Blue light glasses have become a popular accessory, often marketed as a way to protect your vision and reduce eye strain. But do they actually work?

Understanding Computer Vision Syndrome

If you’ve ever experienced headaches, dry eyes, blurry vision, or neck and shoulder pain after staring at your computer, you’re not alone. These symptoms are signs of computer vision syndrome (CVS), sometimes called digital eye strain. CVS is a group of eye- and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader, and cell phone use.
 

Common causes of computer vision syndrome include:
 

• Extended Screen Time: Spending two or more hours per day in front of screens.

• Poor Lighting: Bright overhead lights or glare from windows.

• Improper Viewing Distances: Screens that are too close or too far away.

• Uncorrected Vision Problems: Existing vision issues, like farsightedness or astigmatism, can make symptoms worse.

• Low Blink Rate: People tend to blink less when focusing on screens, leading to dry eyes.

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

Blue light glasses are eyewear designed with special lenses that filter or block a portion of the high-energy blue light emitted from digital devices. The idea is that by reducing your eyes’ exposure to blue light, you can minimize digital eye strain and possibly improve sleep quality.
 

Blue light glasses typically use coatings or tinted materials to absorb or block blue light, especially from 400 to 500 nanometers - the range most commonly associated with screens. When you wear them during screen time, these lenses help reduce glare and the intensity of blue light entering your eyes.
 

Do Blue Light Glasses Really Protect Your Eyes?

The research on blue light glasses is ongoing, but current evidence suggests that blue light from screens is not damaging to the eyes. Most experts agree that blue light glasses can help with discomfort from glare and improve contrast, which might reduce eye strain for some people. However, the most significant causes of digital eye strain are related to how we use our screens - not just the blue light itself.

Other Strategies to Protect Your Eyes

While blue light glasses can be helpful for some, there are several other proven strategies to keep your eyes healthy during long hours at the computer:
 

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

• Adjust Your Screen: Keep your screen about an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level.

• Optimize Lighting: Use proper room lighting to reduce glare on your screen.

• Take Breaks: Stand up, stretch, and move around regularly.

• Get Regular Eye Exams: Visit your eye doctor to ensure your prescription is up-to-date and discuss any symptoms.

Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Vision

Blue light glasses can play a role in reducing digital eye strain for some people, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Managing your screen time, optimizing your workspace, and maintaining healthy habits are just as important in keeping your eyes comfortable and your vision sharp.

Curious about whether blue light glasses are right for you, or struggling with symptoms of digital eye strain? Schedule an eye exam with Super Optical Express to find the best solutions to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. Visit our office in Gainesville, Florida, or call (352) 702-9700 today.