Keeping your peepers safe

Before the technological age, the sun was the natural source of blue light. Blue light is a colour in the visible light spectrum that can be seen by human eyes.

Phones, tablets, computer screens and light bulbs also emit blue light, and this causes over-exposure that will disrupt your circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythm is your sleep-wake cycle.

“People who spend many hours on their laptops daily are likely to be affected by computer vision syndrome (CVS),” says Dr Joash Tarus, an optometrist at the Reale Hospital in Eldoret. Symptoms of CVS include eye strain, headaches, excessive tearing, and eye irritation.

Looking at your laptop, phone or tablet for long can also cause blurriness or double vision, burning eyes, and frequent blinking.

But then again, using the screens is inevitable, especially at work. But then there is new technology that helps ease the damage cause by the blue light; the blue light blocking lenses.

Everyone should use them

These are special glasses that should be used by people who work for long hours on the computer. They filter out damaging blue light from digital screens and help reduce eye strain. Anyone can use these glasses “once we determine through examination that you do not suffer from any other eye condition like cataract,” says Dr Tarus.

There has been some controversy regarding the use of the special lenses with some ophthalmologists saying they are necessary while others shun them. But a study done three years ago by the University of Houston to test the effectiveness of the lenses showed that those who used the glasses while on their computers had a 58 per cent increased levels of melatonin at night. “By using blue blocking glasses, we can improve sleep and still continue to use our devices,” said Lisa Ostrin, a professor at the university’s College of Optometry.

Some devices will also have night mode application that ensures reduced amounts of blue light emission. Use that especially if when using the screen at night.

Besides using the blue block lenses, there are other ways to practice visual hygiene.

The 20-20-20 rule

20-20-20 rule says that every 20 minutes of screen time, you should look away at something at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. “This helps your eye muscles to relax and relieves you of pain caused by straining,” says Dr Tarus.

Artificial tears

Artificial tears is a solution that is used to relieve burning, irritation and discomfort caused by dry eyes. This is a common condition that occurs when your tears cannot provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. Prolonged exposure to the computer is one of the causes of dry eyes, this condition can cause a stinging, burning or scratchy sensation. Eye redness, sensitivity to light and watery eyes are also symptoms of dry eyes. Consult an optometrist once you exhibit these symptoms for proper eye care.