Eyes on Henry Explains the Negative Effects Blue Light Can Have on Eyes

SPARTANBURG, S.C., Nov. 27, 2016 -- Eyes on Henry wants to educate the community on the impacts that blue light from electronic devices can have on the eyes and overall health. Exposure to blue light from digital devices and energy-efficient light bulbs can have harmful health effects on your eyes and your sleep cycle. The key to preventing these issues is taking steps to protect your eyes from blue light.

The screens on electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and computers emit blue light waves. These light waves are shorter and flicker more easily than longer wavelengths, which can create a glare that reduces visual contrast and affects sharpness and clarity. This can cause eyestrain, headaches, and physical or mental fatigue that is often associated with staring at a screen for much of the day.

Though blue wavelengths can increase attention span and mood during daylight hours, according to Harvard Medical School, these same wavelengths are most disruptive at night. Blue light can interfere with sleep patterns by suppressing the secretion of melatonin, which influences circadian rhythms.

"Many people use their smartphones and other electronic devices throughout the day, right up until they go to bed at night," says Dr. Louis Martin, Spartanburg optometrist with Eyes on Henry. "This will not only negatively impact sleep patterns, but it can also lead to retinal or macular degeneration and other retinal disorders."

One of the best ways to protect your eyes from the negative impact of blue light is to reduce your screen time throughout the day. This is especially important at night-time when blue light can have the most harmful effects on your health. By cutting back on tech use at night, individuals can get a better night's rest and be more productive at school and work. However, cutting back on screen time is not always an option for those who regularly use their electronic devices for work.

"There are lenses available that block the harmful blue light emitted by electronic devices," says Dr. Louis Martin. "This can be a great option for those who work long hours on the computer or need to use electronic devices during night-time hours."

For more information about blue light or specialized lenses that filter out blue light to minimize the effects of blue light exposure, call Eyes on Henry at (864) 334-7324.

About Eyes on Henry

Eyes on Henry is an eye and vision care center offering optometry services to families and individuals in the Spartanburg, SC area. The optometry team offers a variety of vision care and eye health services including comprehensive eye exams, contact lenses, glasses, glaucoma testing, and pre- and post-operative care. Visit their website at http://eyesonhenry.com/ for more information.

Eyes on Henry, (864) 334-7324