Blue light causes damage to vision

Modern technology can be a great tool for today’s society. But it can also be harmful to your health. Eye doctors said that the blue light emitted from most types of technology can cause vision problems if left alone for a long period of time.

Computer screens, smartphones, iPads, TVs and even the sun are all sources of blue light that we look at often.

Eye doctors said while the sun is a more stronger source of blue light, the reason technology can be more harmful is because of consistency.

“For some of us, it’s 12 to 16 hours of blue light exposure all day long so even though the blue light that emits from screens and such might not be as powerful as the sun, now we’re faced with it directly to our eyes for long periods of time,” said Dr. Michael Tucker, an optometrist at Alameda Vision Center in Pocatello.

Blue light damages the vision by attacking the back of the eye – the macula, causing it to degenerate.

“Macular degeneration tends to affect our central vision, which is the part that sees the clearest,” Tucker said. “So, if we’re trying to look at some letters on a sign or read a book, we’re using that central area, that maculate, to focus.”

Over a long period of time, maculate degeneration can cause severe, or even complete, vision loss if untreated.

Tucker said he’s seen problems from technology and blue light become more and more common. But he said it can be helped. They make special lenses and prescriptions specifically for eye strain and blue light. There are anti-glare lenses, there are indoor reflection lenses, outdoor absorption ones – all types. These are not bifocals, they are specific lenses made to protect your eyes from blue light.

Tucker said one thing he’s noticed is his patients don’t always seem to realize their problems stem from blue light. He also said that just because you may not have obvious vision problems does not mean there isn’t damage or strain to your eyes. He said that’s why the American Optometric Association recommends everyone get an eye exam every year.

Tucker said exposure to blue light can also disrupt sleep cycles. Doctors recommend turning off phones or electronic devices at least two hours before going to sleep.

He said if you have to be on computers or technology for long periods of time every day, there is one simple suggestion that can help. Doctors call it the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes you are looking at a screen, look away. Look 20 feet into the distance for at least 20 seconds before looking back to the screen. Tucker said this can help relax and refocus your eyes, which can make a difference when dealing with constant eye strain.

If you have any concerns or problems with vision, contact a local eye doctor right away for an exam.