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Light waves are active all around you, both natural and artificial—and each has a significant impact on your vision and well-being. Blue light sits alongside UV rays as one of the greatest threats to your eyesight. It can interrupt day-to-day health and have negative long-term effects, which is why prevention should be a part of your daily vision care regimen.

The Impact of Blue Light on the Body

What Is Blue Light?

Blue light is naturally occurring in sunlight. When it pierces the atmosphere, it scatters, which is why the sky appears blue. It’s also manufactured and emitted from LED bulbs and screens, like those on tablets, smartphones, and e-readers. In short doses, you won’t face any risks. However, depending on when and how long you look at artificial blue light, you may suffer long-term health consequences.

How It Affects the Body

vision careBlue light regulates your sleep cycle. Your body processes it during the day and knows to be awake. Once the sun sets and the natural blue light disappears, it knows to prepare for sleep. By looking at computer screens and LED TVs before bed, you’re tricking your brain into thinking that you should still be awake, leading to insomnia and poor sleep quality.

Blue light also damages the eyes over time. Its short wavelength allows it to flicker quickly, which can impact visual clarity, create headaches from digital eye strain, and even contribute to eye diseases like macular degeneration later in life.

How Can I Protect Myself?

A few changes in vision care can make a significant difference. Avoid looking at LED screens 2-3 hours before bed so you maintain your sleep cycle, and get plenty of sunlight during the day to keep your body on schedule. If you use LED screens, wear blue-filtering glasses to cut down on exposure. See your vision care professional regularly as well for exams so they can confirm you’re properly caring for your eyes.

 

Whether you’re suffering vision issues or are just overdue for an eye exam, turn to Dr. L R Gabe of Show Low, AZ. Dr. Gabe offers comprehensive eye care services at his practice and is committed to educating patients on how to care for their eyes. He and his skilled staff provide detailed general and specialty testing and will work to find a solution to any issues you’re facing. Call (928) 537-5565 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about the practice. For more vision care tips, connect on Facebook.

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