10 TIPS TO PROTECT EYES FROM DAMAGING BLUE LIGHT FROM SCREENS

In today's digital age, our eyes are constantly exposed to blue light emitted by screens, which can lead to various eye issues if not managed properly. While blue light boosts alertness and mood and supports cognitive function, overexposure can lead to issues like digital eyestrain and retinal cell damage. The right precautions can safeguard your eye health and minimize the negative effects of blue light. Here are several essential tips to help you protect your eyes, as suggested by Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director Dr Basu hospital and Jagat Pharma:

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Remember to give your eyes regular breaks. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax your eye muscles and reduces the intensity of blue light exposure.
• Manage Screen Time: Limit the time spent using digital devices, especially before bedtime. Excessive screen time can disrupt your circadian rhythm and affect sleep quality.
• Buy Computer Glasses: Buy glasses with blue light filters or lenses specifically designed for computer use. These glasses can help reduce eye strain and minimize exposure to harmful blue light.
• Use Anti-Reflective Lenses: When working on computers for long period of time, use eyeglasses with anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare and reflections.
• Try a Screen Filter: Apply a screen filter or use software that reduces blue light emission from your devices. These can be helpful for those who spend long hours in front of screens.
• Boost Your Macular Pigment: Include foods rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, and zinc into your diet. These nutrients can help strengthen your macular pigment and protect against age-related eye conditions such as macular degeneration.

• Consider IOLs (Intraocular Lenses): In some cases, intraocular lenses may be recommended to reduce blue light exposure and protect the eyes especially for individuals at higher risk of retinal damage.
• Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection: You should wear sunglasses with UV protection, especially when spending long hours outside. UV protection not only shields the eyes from harmful UV rays but also helps reduce exposure to blue light from natural sources.
• Consider Ayurvedic Eye Care: Incorporate Ayurvedic practices such as eye exercises, netra tarpana (ghee eye bath), and triphala eye wash to nourish and strengthen the eyes. Ayurvedic herbs like triphala and ghee are known for their rejuvenating effects on eye health.
• Prioritize Eye Health: Make eye care a priority by scheduling regular check-ups and seeking professional advice if experiencing any discomfort or vision changes.

You can protect your eyes against blue light emitted from screens by following these essential tips and incorporating healthy habits into your lifestyle. Prioritise your eye health to ensure long-term vision clarity and comfort, especially in today's digital world.

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