A new study claims that blue light emitted from digital devices, including smartphones and tablets, may lead to macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is an incurable eye disease that leads to significant vision loss in people age 50 or older and the leading cause of blindness in the U.S.
While this study makes a connection between blue light and vision loss later in life, more research is needed to determine how much natural and man-made blue light is “too much.”
According to the Vision Council, nearly one-third of adults spend more than half their waking hours using a digital device. Even more alarming, nearly 32 percent of adults do not take any action to reduce digital eye strain.
According to this study, repeated exposure to blue light and the sun can cause retinal molecules to trigger reactions in the eye, which generate poisonous chemical molecules in photoreceptor cells and kills them. These cells do not regenerate.
A condition associated with blue light exposure is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS manifests through fatigue, headaches, blurred vision and other non-specific symptoms. Researchers also found when people use digital devices in the evening, it increases the prevalence of sleep disorders.
Fortunately, sunglasses or other task-specific eyewear that filter UV and blue light can protect the eyes. If selecting blue light-blocking lenses, be aware that most varieties distort color perception.
DuraVision BlueProtect by ZEISS Vision Care offers an exceptional anti-reflective coating with excellent light transmission that deflects the most harmful wavelengths without interfering with the body’s circadian rhythm, your natural sleep/wake cycle.
Visit your ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate your symptoms, and an optical expert to fill your prescription for the appropriate task specific eyewear.
Dr. Stephen H. Uretsky is a board-certified ophthalmologist with 30 years of practice experience who specializes in comprehensive eye care. Coastal Jersey Eye Center features an optical center, Classic Eyewear, which provides eyeglass frames and lenses to suit every style and budget. For more information on eye exams or to schedule an appointment, please call the Linwood office at (609) 927-3373 or the Cape May Court House office at (609) 465-7926. Visit us online at www.CoastalJerseyEye.com.
