Blue Light Glasses: Are They a Sight for Sore Eyes?

Have you ever heard of blue light glasses? Maybe you’ve seen people wearing them while using their computers, playing video games, or even watching TV. Teenagers are telling their parents that they “need” these glasses but is it just a fashion trend? These special glasses are said to protect our eyes from the harmful effects of blue light. But do they really work, and are they good for preventing eye fatigue? What about if you have had LASIK? Can you still wear them?

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

Understanding Blue Light:

Before we can figure out if blue light glasses are helpful, we need to know a bit about what blue light is. Blue light is a part of the visible light spectrum, and it’s all around us. It comes from the sun, digital screens (like phones and computers), and even indoor lighting.

The Problem with Too Much Blue Light:

While blue light is a natural part of our environment, too much of it, especially from screens, can be a problem. Some people say that too much blue light exposure can lead to eye strain and eye fatigue. It might also affect your sleep by disrupting your circadian rhythm (your body’s internal clock), making it harder to fall asleep at night.

How Blue Light Glasses Work:

Blue light glasses are designed to block or reduce the amount of blue light that enters your eyes. They have a special coating that filters out a portion of the blue light, helping to protect your eyes from the potential harm. Some blue light glasses are clear, so you can’t even tell they’re there, while others have a slightly yellow or amber tint.

Do Blue Light Glasses Help Prevent Eye Fatigue or Eye Strain?

Now, here comes the big question: Do blue light glasses actually help with eye fatigue? The answer is a bit complicated.

 

The Yes Side:

Some people swear by blue light glasses and say they’ve helped reduce their eye strain. These glasses can be especially useful for those who spend a lot of time in front of screens for work or play. By reducing the amount of blue light entering their eyes, they may experience less discomfort and fatigue.

 

The No Side:

On the other hand, some experts argue that there’s not enough concrete evidence to prove that blue light glasses are the magic solution for preventing eye strain and fatigue. They say that taking regular breaks, adjusting screen settings, and having good lighting in your workspace can be just as effective in reducing eye discomfort.

 

Do blue light glasses work?

So, what’s the verdict? Well, it depends on your personal situation. Yes, people who have undergone LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery can wear blue light glasses, just like anyone else. LASIK is a surgical procedure used to correct vision problems, particularly nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. After LASIK, many people experience improved vision and reduced or eliminated reliance on prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.

 

However, it’s important to note that while LASIK can correct refractive vision issues, it does not address other aspects of eye health, such as sensitivity to glare or eye strain from extended screen time. Some people may still experience digital eye strain, which can result from prolonged exposure to screens emitting blue light, even after LASIK surgery.

 

Can I Use Blue Light Glasses After LASIK?

To alleviate digital eye strain or reduce the potential effects of blue light exposure, LASIK patients can use blue light glasses. Wearing blue light glasses after LASIK surgery can be especially beneficial for those who spend significant time in front of digital screens, whether for work or leisure. After staring at screens for a long time, trying blue light glasses might be a good idea. They could make a difference for you.

But remember, it’s essential to take other steps to protect your eyes as well. Try to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain. Also, make sure your workspace has proper lighting and that you aren’t using screens in the dark.

 

Be sure to talk to one of our doctors about not only the benefits of LASIK, but also any risks of LASIK that may pertain to your individual needs and circumstances.