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Computer Glasses & Blue Light Protection

In today’s hi-tech world, using a computer and mobile phone is a necessity. With the global reach of business and private enterprise, the need for constant connectivity has made much of our lives more convenient and efficient. However, it has also caused some serious concerns among parents, educators, sociologists, and members of the medical community.

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Computer Vision Syndrome Treatment - Westpoint Optical

The average American child has up to 4 hours of screen time every day. For adults, it’s almost triple that number. According to Nielsen, American adults spend up to 11 hours each day on various types of interactive media. This heavy amount of screen time is, not surprisingly, resulting in significant health issues, especially in the eyes. The most common condition is Digital Eye Strain, also referred to as Computer Vision Syndrome.

What Is Digital Eye Strain?

Digital Eye Strain (DES), also called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), is a condition that occurs when the eye is forced to focus on a digital device, such as a TV, desktop computer, laptop, or smartphone, for a lengthy amount of time. A whopping 70% of US adults suffer from the condition, and people aged 18-34 have reported stronger feelings of eyestrain than those in older age groups.

The longer a person stares at a screen, the less they blink their eyes, and this can cause discomfort or vision problems. Blinking is healthy because it naturally moisturizes the eyes and gets rid of tiny particles that may enter the eye. Less blinking causes dryness, itching, and redness. Some may experience mild swelling or pain, although it varies among each person.

DES can also negatively affect sleep patterns and cause upper body pain. When our brains are constantly ‘on’ as we consume content and remain alert for long periods of time, it becomes harder for the body to slow down and rest. A body needs movement and exercise (in addition to sleep and nutrition, of course) in order to stay healthy and in good shape. Sitting on a chair or couch for hours on end often results in stiff shoulders, neck pain, and upper back strain.

Many eyecare practitioners believe that DES can contribute to the development of cataracts and age-related Macular Degeneration, so paying attention to the signs is becoming increasingly important.

What Is Blue Light and Is It Dangerous?

There’s just something beautiful, even mesmerizing, about brightly colored lights. Our eyes are naturally drawn to bright lights from shops, Christmas trees, and decorative fixtures. However, while most lights used in home décor or in holiday decorations aren’t harmful, the blue light from digital devices is a different kind of light, and it can be dangerous for your eyes.

Scientifically-speaking, there is a certain range of light that can be seen by the human eye. This is known as the visibility spectrum. Of all the colors of light on the visibility spectrum, blue light has the highest amount of energy and is known to be a primary cause of Computer Vision Syndrome.

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Kids and Computer Use

Today, our children are growing up with technology, even from infancy. Millions of children use a multitude of apps and interactive computer games, and the majority of school-age kids have their own smartphones. The amount of hi-tech media products for kids are constantly growing, so it’s more important than ever to help protect children’s eyes.

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Computer Glasses and Blue Light Protection

So how can you protect your eyes from Computer Vision Syndrome while continuing your computer use without too much interruption? The answer is protective eyewear.

Special computer glasses can shield your eyes from harmful blue light and ease the strain on your eyes. They include a blue light filter, so while you use a digital device, they block harmful blue light from entering your eye. This, in turn, ensures that your eyes don’t have to work as hard to focus and can improve your sleep patterns.

Single Vision Computer Glasses are ideal for working on a computer that is at a fixed distance, so it does not move closer or further away. These glasses also work well when viewing several screens at the same distance.

Visual Aids and Tools for
Digital Eye Strain

Advances in technology make it possible for people with DES to get some relief. Anti-glare covers for a desktop computer screen, and a brighter screen resolution can make it easier on the eyes, decreasing or even eliminating the need to squint or sit too close to your screen. Proper desk chairs with good back support and ergonomic accessories like keyboards and computer stands can all improve your sitting posture for a more comfortable work environment.

our optometric team will be glad to recommend a number of visual aids or devices that can help with your Digital Eye Strain symptoms for more comfortable long-term computer use.