The Dangers of Blue Light Explained By Our Optometrists in Sheridan & Gillette WY
Optometrists in Sheridan & Gillette WY warn patients about the dangers of blue light. The effects of the light can do permanent damage to the eyes in people who have had a great deal of exposure to this type of light. Although eye doctors do provide blue light treatment in Sheridan & Gillette, it’s important to limit exposure to this type of light if at all possible.
What is Blue Light?
Whether you’re in a room with a light on, you turned your computer on to read this article or you’re out in the sun, your eyes are being exposed to different shades of light. The light consists of red, yellow, green, blue and orange light in various shades. The different colors have different wavelengths of energy. For instance, red light consists of long wavelengths that have less energy. On the other end of the spectrum is blue light. The blue light has short wavelengths, which have a higher amount of energy. When you’re out in the sun, or if you go tanning, you’re being exposed to ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light has a higher amount of energy than any other shade of light, despite it being invisible. Your eyes are exposed to visible blue light when you use electronics such as your cell phone or computer and even when you watch television. Fluorescent light bulbs and LED lights are said to be more energy efficient, but they can also be damaging to your eyes.
Ultraviolet Light and Sunburned Eyes
Just like your skin, your eyes can get a sunburn. It’s a condition known as photokeratitis. If you experience sunburn in your eyes, you might notice your eyes will become bloodshot. Sunburn in your eyes may be painful or cause a burning sensation. In some cases, your vision will become blurry. Your eyes may feel dry. The light puts you at risk for developing cancer of or around your eye.
Blue Light and Macular Degeneration
The most prevalent concern of blue light exposure is age-related macular degeneration, which is a condition that affects the macula. The macula is part of the retina and is the part of the eye responsible for clear central vision. Those who are at a higher risk for macular degeneration may be advised to use halogen lights.
Reduced Melatonin Secretion
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep; in particular, it affects your circadian rhythm. Melatonin helps a person to fall asleep, but when someone is regularly being exposed to blue light before bedtime, it can reduce melatonin secretion. This causes the person to feel awake at night.
Treatment for Blue Light Exposure
The treatment for blue light exposure from Sheridan optometrists or Gillette optometrists depends on the issues the blue light caused. Prevention of these complications is possible by an optometrist in Sheridan or an optometrist in Gillette. Blue light glasses or computer glasses can be used to reduce the amount of blue light that actually reaches the eye.