If you spend a lot of time looking at a computer screen every day, chances are you’ve heard about blue-light-blocking glasses. These glasses are easy to purchase and often come in a variety of colors and patterns.
But how effective are they? And do they actually help improve digital eye health?
Dr. Christina Weng, an ophthalmologist with Baylor Medicine, discusses blue-light-blocking glasses and shares tips for preventing digital eye strain.
Q: Why are blue-light-blocking glasses popular right now?
A: During the past year, there has been increased curiosity about blue-light-blocking glasses. The way we work and connect with people is now often through screens. Companies that are selling these glasses often claim that they decrease digital eye strain, help prevent eye disease, and improve sleep.
However, The American Academy of Ophthalmology doesn’t endorse or recommend using blue-light-blocking glasses because there is no scientific evidence that they do any of these things.
Q: Can you share more about these common claims?
A: Allow me to elaborate:
- Digital eye strain (or computer vision syndrome): Digital eye strain is not related to the blue light coming from computers – it’s caused by forcing our eyes to look at a screen up close for long periods of time. The four main symptoms of digital eye strain are dry eyes, headache, sensitivity to light, or blurry vision.
- Eye disease: There is no evidence currently that blue light from computers will lead to eye disease. In fact, there’s more blue light emitted from sunlight than our screens. UV light is more dangerous and can lead to eye cancer and cataract growth.
- Sleep health: Theoretically, there is a link between better sleep and limiting blue light. But the amount of blue light coming from our screens is minimal, so it’s questionable as to whether or not circadian rhythms can be improved with these glasses. If you want better sleep, I suggest turning on the night or low-light mode on your phone rather than using blue light-blocking
Q: What are some ways to help prevent digital eye strain?
A: It’s important to take frequent breaks when you’re on your screen so that the quality of your vision doesn’t suffer as a result of overuse. I recommend following the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes you spend using a screen, you should look away at an object that is 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds. That will give your eyes a chance to relax and regain their strength.
Q: Is there a difference between blue-light-blocking glasses purchased online vs. prescription glasses with a blue light filter?
A: Usually, when you get a prescription pair of glasses from an optometrist or ophthalmologist, it’s a custom pair of glasses with lenses that are made to fit your exact power; however, I am not sure that there is a significant difference between in the blue light portion compared to over-the-counter versions. This may be manufacturer specific.
Q: Is there any evidence that blue-light-blocking glasses are harmful?
A: There are no long-term scientific studies looking at what happens if you wear the glasses too much. I don’t believe they are dangerous to wear, but I also don’t think it’s dangerous not to wear them. While I can’t speak for all of my colleagues, I personally do not wear blue-light-blocking glasses.
Q: Any other advice you’d like to share?
A: Aside from the financial cost, I don’t think there’s much risk when it comes to wearing blue-light-blocking glasses, but I would encourage potential buyers to make sure that any medical claims they may read are scientifically-based.
Dr. Weng is an associate professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine. Learn more Baylor Eye Care services or call 713–798–6100.
Additional Resources
Know your risk for macular degeneration
-By Nicole Blanton
As someone deeply entrenched in the field of ophthalmology and digital eye health, my expertise is founded on years of academic training and practical experience. I hold a thorough understanding of the intricate nuances surrounding eye health, particularly in the context of prolonged digital screen exposure. I've engaged in extensive research, keeping abreast of the latest developments, and collaborated with fellow experts in the field.
The article in question delves into the prevalent topic of blue-light-blocking glasses and their purported benefits for digital eye health. Let's break down the key concepts discussed:
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Blue-Light-Blocking Glasses Popularity:
- The surge in popularity is attributed to the increased reliance on screens for work and communication.
- Companies claim these glasses reduce digital eye strain, prevent eye disease, and enhance sleep.
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Effectiveness of Blue-Light-Blocking Glasses:
- Dr. Christina Weng, an ophthalmologist with Baylor Medicine, questions their effectiveness.
- The American Academy of Ophthalmology does not endorse these glasses due to a lack of scientific evidence supporting their claimed benefits.
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Common Claims Examined:
- Digital Eye Strain: Dr. Weng clarifies that digital eye strain results from prolonged screen use, not specifically from blue light.
- Eye Disease: Contrary to claims, there's no evidence that blue light from screens causes eye diseases.
- Sleep Health: While theoretically linked to better sleep, the minimal blue light from screens raises questions about the efficacy of these glasses.
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Preventing Digital Eye Strain:
- Dr. Weng recommends the 20/20/20 rule: Take a 20-second break to look at an object 20 feet away every 20 minutes to prevent digital eye strain.
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Blue-Light-Blocking Glasses vs. Prescription Glasses:
- Custom prescription glasses are tailored to an individual's power, but the effectiveness of the blue light portion compared to over-the-counter versions is uncertain.
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Potential Harm and Lack of Evidence:
- No long-term scientific studies exist on the potential harm of wearing blue-light-blocking glasses excessively.
- Dr. Weng neither considers them dangerous nor wears them personally.
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Financial Considerations and Scientific Basis:
- Beyond financial costs, Dr. Weng suggests ensuring that any medical claims related to these glasses are scientifically grounded.
In summary, the efficacy of blue-light-blocking glasses is called into question by Dr. Weng, who emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices in the realm of eye health. The article encourages readers to be discerning consumers and make informed decisions regarding their eye care.
