The age of technology has arrived. We are evolving as a result of scientific advancements. We spend most of our time staring at a screen. It may be of a mobile phone, a PC, or an LCD in a room. A recent study claims the average screen time of an adult is about 7 hours per day. Mobile screens are on the top for internet surfing. 

A digital screen emits light of a particular wavelength named "Blue light." In simple words, It is high energy visible (HEV) light. It accounts for roughly one-third of all visible light. Sun is the most significant natural source of Blue light. Apart from this, digital devices emit just a fraction of what the sun does. 

So, here a question arises why does Blue light from artificial sources become an issue? 

Effects of excessive Blue light on eyes

Working on digital devices is a necessity nowadays. Television, laptop, smartphone, and tablet emit about  76%, 57%, 70%, and 42% of Blue light, respectively. 

In front of a screen, when we find something interesting, we are absorbed in it. We scroll up and so on. We blink 66% less while focusing on a screen. It makes our eyes dry and gives us a burning sensation. It further leads to computer vision syndrome.

Long-term exposure to excess artificial blue light causes blurry vision, eyestrain, dry eye, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Screen usage at night also interferes with natural sleep and waking patterns.

Several digital companies make devices with Blue light filters. Still, they are not enough to protect the eyes from blue light. That's why Blue light glasses should be a priority for eye protection. 

When should Blue light glasses be used?

Usually, we spend about 8 to 9 hours per day in front of a digital screen. We may experience watery eyes, tired or sore eyes, hazy sight, headache, dizziness, or stiff neck. These are the side effects of excessive exposure to artificial Blue light. You should wear anti-blue light glasses when working for a more extended period.

How do Blue light glasses work?

An anti-reflective coating is beneficial in environments with fluorescent or other bright lighting sources. Therefore, such eyewear reflects blue-violet light and prevents it from reaching the eyes. You can work for hours on a laptop or PC without feeling eye strain and fatigue. These boost vision clarity and provide optimum protection. 

Advantages 

Investment in blue-cut glasses can benefit you in the following ways. 

1) Reduce eye stress

Since Blue light emits from all sources, it is good to wear Blue light protection glasses from time to time. Blocking about 50% of artificial blue light may relieve eye strain. These pose no harm to the eyes and are suitable for people of all ages.

2) Improve sleep

Blue light alters the release of melatonin (a hormone) in the human body. This chemical is responsible for the normal sleep cycle and helps us sleep at night. However, excessive Blue light suppresses Melatonin secretion and leads to insomnia. Therefore, such glasses can keep Melatonin levels in balance. 

3) Protect your eyes from diseases

Research conducted by the Paris Vision Institute explains that the blue-violet light within the 415-455 nm wavelength damages the retina severely since it leads to oxidative stress. More evidence confirms that Blue light also causes muscular degeneration in the eyes. 

In the presence of more blue light, the age pigment known as "lipofuscin" accumulates in the retina, speeding up our eyes' aging process. It can cause worsening eyesight and even blindness. You can avoid such problems advantageously by using Blue light glasses.

Disadvantages 

Everything has both advantages and disadvantages. Likewise, many of us may not be in favor of this eyewear. There are no such hard and fast guidelines on their usage.

1) Avoid using them for more extended periods

Light from the sun is a complete, balanced spectrum of light, including all the visible colors plus UV and infrared light. It is very different from artificial light emitted from devices and modern lighting. The full spectrum of natural light entering our eyes anchors and sets our circadian rhythm and tells our brain what time of the day it is. To a certain extent, Blue light promotes the refractive development of the human eye and regulates circadian rhythm. Instead of getting benefits, the disadvantage of wearing these all day long is altering your body's functioning.

2) Waste of money

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, you do not need Blue light glasses as any unique eyewear does not recommend them for computer users. The organization emphasizes that Blue light from digital devices is not the cause of eyestrain. The overuse of digital devices merely causes problems people may have. According to AAO, Blue light from digital screens is not the cause of eye strain. It is due to how long we use our digital devices.

Blair O Reilly, a doctor of optometry and visual science, says, "If the Blue light is an issue, correct it at the source." Use an app like flux or night shift. Or turn the brightness down in little light. 

3) Can make you feel uncomfortable

Instead of choosing blue light-blocking glasses, go for lenses that filter out harmful blue light. Blue light is an essential part of the visible light spectrum and is necessary for our biological processes. A lens that filters out more than 60% of Blue light may cause you ill at ease to see things slightly yellowishly. 

Blue light computer glasses in Pakistan 

Many brands offer blue-cut glasses and lenses in Pakistan at reasonable prices. The price of blue cut lenses or glasses ranges from 1500 to 3000 Rs/-. Amber and yellow tint glasses are satisfactory for screen use, as these shades improve contrast. You can order them online at

• https://glassesmart.pk/  

• https://ainak.pk/blue-cut-lenses-price-in-pakistan/ 

• https://ainak.pk/ 

Here you can get the Blue light computer glass of your style. You can also gift these glasses to your parents, siblings, or friends. It should be a priority to take care of others' health.

Conclusion 

Healthy vision is crucial for well-being. Eye drops are a good option when you feel dry. Keep a distance of about 20 to 26 inches between your eyes and a desktop. Use screen filters to reduce exposure to artificial Blue light. Keep the room's lighting neither too high nor too low while using a screen.