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Do Blue Light Glasses Help With Headaches?
04.09.23
The buzz around blue light and its potential linkage to headaches has been a hot topic in scholarly circles. When we immerse ourselves in the digital realm for prolonged periods, it's believed that the blue light emitted by our screens may be responsible for headaches resulting from eye strain.
Engaging excessively with your smartphone or spending long hours in front of digital screens or under LED lights exposes your eyes to blue light, which is often associated with both common headaches and more severe migraines. Such headaches can be seen as a sign of digital eye strain.
Recognising Digital Eye Strain
Digital Eye Strain (DES) has been flagged in numerous researches as a byproduct of excessive blue light exposure. Devices like smartphones, computers, televisions, and even LED lights emit blue light that can trigger DES.
Symptoms often include:
Headaches
Eye dryness and fatigue
Blurred vision
Associated neck and shoulder discomfort
Increased light sensitivity
However, some experts propose that blue light might not be the only culprit. Factors like how close we sit to our screens and LED flickering can also come into play. Regardless, extended screen time has been associated with an increase in headache frequency.
The Link Between Blue Light and Migraines
Photophobia, or extreme light sensitivity, is a common condition, with about 80% of recurrent migraine sufferers reporting this sensitivity. Research indicates that in such individuals, exposure to high-energy visible blue light can exacerbate migraine symptoms.
Furthermore, blue light can stimulate more neuronal activity than other colors. The intensity of blue light directly correlates with the severity of headaches it may induce.
Ways to Minimise Blue Light-Induced Headaches
To reduce the likelihood of headaches from blue light exposure:
1/ Opt for blue light glasses to filter out screen emissions.
2/ Every 20 minutes, shift your gaze to an object roughly 20 feet away for 20 seconds (the 20-20-20 rule).
3/ Regularly take breaks from screens.
4/ Position yourself about 20 to 26 inches from your computer monitor.
5/ Blink often and consider using moisturising eye drops.
Implementing these measures can help diminish the frequency and intensity of blue light-induced headaches.
The Efficacy of Blue Light Glasses
Research suggests that using blue light filters can reduce symptoms of ocular strain and DES, alleviating headaches. Simple clear lens computer glasses can make a difference if you're prone to blue light-related headaches. For migraine sufferers, more intensive blue light blocking may be necessary for relief. One study identified that light in the 415nm to 455nm range is particularly harmful, advocating for protective measures against this spectrum.
Baxter Blue's range of Blue Light Glasses, filters out 80% of the highest energy blue light known to cause digital eye strain and headaches
Numerous users of blue light glasses have reported a reduction in eye strain and subsequent headaches. While they might not be the silver bullet for everyone, they seem to provide relief for some, especially those who spend a significant portion of their day in front of screens.
It's essential to approach the idea of blue light glasses as a potential tool in a broader toolkit for managing and preventing headaches. Regular screen breaks, maintaining good posture, ensuring a well-lit environment, and other ergonomic practices should also be incorporated into one's daily routine.
If you're considering blue light glasses to alleviate headaches, it may be worth giving Baxter Blue's range of Blue Light Glasses a try, especially if you find yourself frequently exposed to screens. However, remember to keep a holistic approach, considering other factors that might be contributing to your headaches and seeking advice from healthcare professionals when necessary.
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