The Link Between Blue Light and Sleep Quality

by Admin
March 16, 2023

Many of us have become accustomed to spending long hours in front of our digital screens for work or entertainment. We are aware that this blue light exposure can contribute to digital eye strain. What many of us fail to realize, though, is the impact that blue light emitted from these screens can have on our sleep quality. Blue light is a type of light that is emitted by electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, even from energy-efficient light bulbs. While exposure to natural light during the day can help regulate our sleep-wake cycle, exposure to blue light in the evening can disrupt our natural circadian rhythm and lead to a decrease in the quality of our sleep.

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The Problem With Blue Light

The reason that blue light interrupts our circadian rhythms is that blue light has a shorter wavelength than other colours in the visible light spectrum, which means that it is more stimulating to the brain. When we are exposed to blue light, it can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. This can make it more difficult to fall asleep and can also lead to poor sleep quality throughout the night. In addition to disrupting our sleep-wake cycle, exposure to blue light in the evening can also have a number of other negative health effects. Studies have shown that blue light exposure at night can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease and negatively impact mood and cognitive function.

What can we do to minimize our exposure to blue light and improve our sleep quality?
One of the simplest ways to reduce our exposure to blue light is to limit our use of electronic devices in the evening. This can include avoiding the use of electronic devices for at least 1-2 hours before bedtime or using software or apps that can filter out blue light from our screens. For example, many smartphones now have a “night mode” feature that reduces the amount of blue light emitted from the screen.

Another option is to invest in blue light-blocking glasses. These glasses work by filtering out blue light, which can help to reduce the harmful effects of blue light on our sleep quality. Your optometrist can help you find the most effective blue light-blocking glasses, prescription or non-prescription.

In addition to these strategies, there are also a number of other steps that we can take to improve our overall sleep quality. These can include establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimizing our sleep environment by minimizing noise and light.

It is important to note that while reducing our exposure to blue light can have a positive impact on our sleep quality, it is not a cure-all for sleep problems. If you are experiencing ongoing sleep issues that are impacting your vision or eye health, it is important to speak with your optometrist who can help you identify how sleep problems could be impacting your eyes and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Find The Right Eyeglasses In Calgary

The link between blue light and sleep quality is a complex one, and there is still much that we don’t fully understand about this relationship. However, what we do know is that reducing our exposure to blue light in the evening can have a positive impact on our sleep quality and overall health. By taking steps to limit our use of electronic devices in the evening, using blue light-blocking eyeglasses and optimizing our sleep environment, we can help to ensure that we are getting the quality sleep that our bodies need to function at their best.

If sleep challenges are compromising your eye health, if you are concerned that blue light exposure is causing digital eye strain, or for all other vision concerns, Sunridge Eye Clinic can help. Our optometrists can provide a comprehensive eye exam and effective treatments to address your eye health. To book an eye exam, contact Sunridge Eye Clinic at 1-403-280-7518 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: Are all blue light-blocking eyeglasses the same?
A: Not all blue light lenses are created equal. Before you make a purchase, make sure to ask your optometrist at what wavelength blue light is reduced.

Q: What are some other effects of too much blue light exposure?
A: Overexposure to blue light can lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as:

Eye strain and fatigue
Dry eyes
Headaches

In addition to wearing your blue light lenses when on digital devices, make sure to blink frequently, have a good sitting posture, and set up your workspace to reduce digital eye strain.

Q: Can I have my current eyeglass frames fitted with blue light blocking lenses?
A: Our team is absolutely able to fit your eyeglasses with quality blue light lenses. Our Calgary optometrists offer comprehensive services to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light.