What’s up with Blue Blocking Glasses?

There has been increased interest in blue blocking glasses during this pandemic due to increased dependence on computer, smart phone, and tablet use.

However, blue-light, high-energy wavelengths of light between 420 and 480 nm on the visible light spectrum, can be both beneficial and harmful.

Blue light is found in natural sunlight and is responsible for suppressing our melatonin production, keeping us awake and alert during the day. It also allows us the most natural view of colors.

However, as the sun goes down, so should our exposure to blue light. The lack of melatonin production due to blue light can interfere with our sleep cycle. Blue light is also more likely to cause glare, such as from our electronic devices and LED lighting. There is some concern that excessive blue light over time may cause damage to the macula, which is the part of the retina that is responsible for our center most detailed vision. Recent studies also indicate a correlation between excessive blue light and cancer, diabetes or even heart disease; however, more research is necessary to prove these claims.

So, the best approach is to be proactive, stay healthy, eat your carrots and green leafy vegetables, and reduce your blue light exposure after sundown. If you look at computers, tablets, or cellphones, put them on the night setting which filters out the blue light. And yes, we do recommend blue light filtering glasses.

At Restore Eye Care we have a full line of blue blocking glasses for children and adults. Our blue blockers have prescription quality optics with anti-scratch and anti-glare coatings. Some are plano and can be worn for simply the blue blocking effect, but most have some degree of plus power common in reading glasses, to reduce near point focus demand at your computer and therefore reduce eye strain. Beyond computer use, these blue blocking reading glasses are also effective for any type of reading or near point activity. We can also add various degrees of blue blocking in your prescription glasses.

Annual eye examinations are of course recommended to insure proper ocular health. At that time, please ask your eye doctor, if blue blocking glasses are right for you.

Restore Eye Care is open for all your eye care needs in a COVID-19 safe environment. We invite you to peruse our website to learn more about the services we offer. Feel free to schedule your next eye exam online, by phone 814-272-0262 or email.