Optometrists Caution Overexposure to Blue Light May Cause Health Issues   

American Optometric Association Shares Tips to Reduce Prolonged Exposure To Blue Light

The American Optometric Association’s (AOA) 2016 American Eye-Q® survey revealed that 88 percent of Americans know that digital devices can negatively affect their vision, but the average American still spends seven or more hours per day looking at their screens. This overexposure to blue light – high-energy visible light emitted from digital devices – can lead to digital eye strain, sleep problems, blurred vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain, among other things. The AOA survey also indicates that the average millennial spends nine hours per day on devices such as smartphones, tablets, LED monitors and flat-screen TVs which also emit blue light.  

The AOA understands that digital devices are an important part of everyday life, and encourages patients to learn about blue light and its impact on vision and health during Save Your Vision Month 2017 in March. The following tips explore ways people can protect their eyes and monitor digital screen usage while at home or work:

Power down before you turn in: Turn your digital devices off at least one hour before bed.

Unplug with the AOA 20-20-20 rule: When you are using any device or computer, make a conscious effort every day to take a 20-second break and look away from the screen, every 20 minutes and view something 20 feet away.

Step back: Maintain a comfortable working distance from your digital device by using the zoom feature to see small print and details, rather than bringing the device closer to your eyes.

Adjust your device to fit your needs: The AOA recommends reducing the glare by adjusting device settings or using a glare filter to decrease the amount of blue light reflected from the screen.

Schedule an appointment: Visit a doctor of optometry by visiting AOA.org to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam to detect and address vision problems.

“This year, we’re challenging you to prioritize not only your eye health, but your overall health and well-being, and limit your exposure to blue light,” said Matthew Clary, MD. “It’s as easy as looking away from your screen every 20 minutes and powering down an hour before bed.”

If you think you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below due to prolonged exposure to blue light, schedule an appointment with ​The Eye Center. For additional information on eye health in the workplace, please visit www.aoa.org.

Blue Light Symptoms:

• digital eye strain
• dry eyes
• eye irritation (burning and stinging)
• blurred vision
• sleep problems

• headaches
• neck and shoulder pain