
From smartphones and laptops to office monitors and tablets, screens are a constant part of everyday life. While digital devices make work and communication easier, they also expose your eyes to high levels of blue light. Understanding how blue light affects your eyes - and how to protect them - can make a noticeable difference in your daily comfort and long-term vision health.
One of the most common issues linked to blue light exposure is digital eye strain. Symptoms may include:
• Tired or aching eyes
• Blurry or fluctuating vision
• Headaches
• Difficulty focusing
• Neck and shoulder tension
These symptoms often worsen after long periods of screen use without breaks.
Blue light exposure in the evening can interfere with melatonin production, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. This may make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to fatigue that can affect both your eyes and overall well-being.
For some individuals, especially those with subtle eye misalignment, blue light and prolonged near work can increase visual stress. This can contribute to headaches, eye fatigue, and discomfort even when vision appears clear.
The good news is there are several effective ways to minimize the impact of blue light on your eyes.
• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
• Blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated
• Adjust screen brightness and contrast to match your environment
• Position screens slightly below eye level and at a comfortable distance
For patients who experience persistent headaches, eye strain, or discomfort related to screen use, Newton™ (formerly Neurolens®) may be an effective solution. Newton™ lenses are designed to address subtle eye alignment issues that can cause visual stress, especially during prolonged near tasks like reading or computer work. Using advanced diagnostic technology, these lenses are customized to help your eyes work together more comfortably, reducing symptoms that traditional glasses may not fully resolve.
Blue light is an unavoidable part of modern life, but its effects on your eyes don’t have to be. By understanding how blue light impacts your vision and taking proactive steps, you can reduce eye strain and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision.