Blue light is composed of the shortest visible wavelengths, which means it contains more energy and has a greater potential for causing damage than other kinds of visible light. The sun is the strongest source of blue light humans interact with, and the dangers of excessive sun exposure are generally understood. Over the past decade, however, another source of blue light has proliferated, and researchers are worried about the long-term effects. Below, an optometrist from Ala Moana EyeCare Associates in Honolulu, HI, explains some of the dangers of blue light and how you can protect your vision.

Understanding Blue Light

Dangers

Energy-efficient light sources, such as those you find in smartphones, tablets, and flat-screen televisions, emit a high level of blue light. Rather than facing blue light only when the sun is out, people are now exposed to it all day, every day through their electronic devices.

Researchers have determined that excessive exposure to blue light will cause serious damage to vision over time. It can, for example, lead to the development of age-related macular degeneration and subsequent vision loss. Blue light exposure can also affect the quality of your sleep, which will cause several health problems.

How to Protect Yourself

If you work in an office and use a computer, you cannot simply stop staring at a screen all day to protect your eyes. Fortunately, there are habits you can adopt to preserve your vision. For example, your eye doctor may recommend taking regular breaks by stepping away from the screen and stretching at periodic intervals. Do not simply use this time to check your phone, though, as that will increase your blue light exposure over the course of the day.

Your optometrist may also recommend purchasing eyeglasses with a special coating. There exists a revolutionary film that reflects and absorbs blue light, protecting your vision from the potential damage that repeated exposure can cause.

If you want to learn more about protecting your eyes from harmful blue light or are overdue for an eye exam, turn to Ala Moana EyeCare Associates on Oahu. Learn more about their services by visiting their website, including emergency eye treatments and frame fittings. To make an appointment with an optometrist today, call (808) 946-3937.