We live in a digital world.
What used to be a home phone is now a smart phone. A paperback or hardback is now a iPad and Kindle. Don’t forget laptops and desktops are basic necessities these days. Electronics are a big part of our life, it is no wonder 67% of Americans say they experience digital eye strain.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Extended exposure to screens (anyone using a screen for 2+ hours) can cause digital eye strain. Computer screens, TV screens, tablet screens and phone screens can all cause digital eye strain from the high energy visible light these electronics emit. Digital eye stain can show in the form of blurred vision, fatigue, dryness, runny eyes, fuzziness, trouble falling asleep, headaches and even migraines.
Are There Risks to Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain can cause nuisance symptoms, but can also cause more serious symptoms like migraines. These issues usually can be reversed once your eyes take a break from the computer. However, with continued long term use of blue light, also known as high energy visible (HEV) light, eye strain can turn into something more serious – Computer Vision Syndrome.
Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer Vision Syndrome is caused by constant use of electronics that emit a blue light. Blue light exposure penetrates the back of the eye and bypasses our eye’s natural filters. It is possible that blue light can cause permanent vision damage and other various eye conditions. Long term vision might be effected from prolonged use of electronics.
How to You Avoid Digital Eye Strain?
The most obvious way to avoid digital eye strain is to avoid electronic screens. But that is not practical for most of us. If you cannot avoid screens all together, try to take frequent breaks when using computer screens and not overuse electronics. Also, you can try to avoid digital screens at least 2 hours before you go to bed – that includes the smart phone screen! Studies have shown that blue light effects our sleep patternsand supresses the natural release of melatonin.
But let’s be realistic. It is nearly impossible to avoid screens. Many of us spend hours at the computer for work and then even more hours browsing our phones and watching TV at home. So what can you do to reduce exposure to blue light? Get a good pair of blue light blocking glasses.
Venn Eyewear
Venn blue light blocking glasses are ideal for those who spend a lot of time looking at electronic screens. These modern glasses currently come in 2 designs, with more designs in the works. Venn eyewear have anti-glare and a unique blue blocking technology that will protect your eyes from strain. Venn eyewear allows you to spend time on your electronics without the harsh consequences of eye strain.
My Venn Blue Light Glasses Review
I am terrified that the electronic devices I use all day are adversely affecting my eyes and may even silently be causing eye diseases. Luckily, I am fixing this problem by wearing my blue light blocking glasses from Venn. I like that these glasses are light on my face and stylish. I have the Beekman ($59.95). I can wear these all day without getting that heavy eye strain. The yellow tint is a bit weird to get used to, but since wearing these during my long hours spent at the computer, I haven’t had a headache! So worth it!