EnLIGHTening News about BLUE LIGHT

You most likely have heard of UV light. What about BLUE light? High-energy blue light wavelengths come from the sun. They come from tablets, televisions and cell phones. Because short-wavelength, high energy blue light scatters more easily than other visible light, it is not as easily focused. When you're looking at computer screens and other digital devices that emit significant amounts of blue light, this unfocused visual "noise" reduces contrast and can contribute to digital eye strain. In addition, blocking this harmful blue light, which penetrates all the way to the retina (the inner lining of the back of the eye), is important because laboratory studies have shown that too much exposure to blue light can damage light-sensitive cells in the retina. This causes changes that resemble those of macular degeneration, which can lead to permanent vision loss.

So, is all blue light bad for you? Why not block all blue light, all the time? Bad idea. It's well documented that some blue light exposure is essential for good health. Research has shown that high-energy visible light boosts alertness, helps memory and cognitive function and elevates mood. Also, blue light is very important in regulating circadian rhythm — the body's natural wakefulness and sleep cycle. Exposure to blue light during daytime hours helps maintain a healthful circadian rhythm. But too much blue light late at night (reading a novel on a tablet computer or e-reader at bedtime, for example) can disrupt this cycle, potentially causing sleepless nights and daytime fatigue.

Since some forms of blue light are necessary, Crizal Prevencia No-Glare lenses selectively block only the harmful types of blue light. New technology called Light Scan™ allows beneficial blue light to pass through the lens while filtering out the dangerous blue-violet light that can cause eye fatigue and retinal damage.
Crizal Prevencia No-Glare lenses also offer comprehensive UV protection. We welcome your questions and gladly offer a viewing of these lenses at our office next to Outback Steakhouse. Dr. Landrio & Associates can help find just the right eyewear "fix" for your individual needs and the needs of your children and parents alike. Contact our office at 516-546-4800 or visit our website for more information www.drlandrio.com