The number of people having computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eyestrain symptoms continues to increase annually.
In a recent study, the worldwide prevalence increased from 12% to 99%.
If you spend at least seven hours a day staring at a computer screen or mobile device, whether for work or entertainment, you are at risk of acquiring CVS as well.
However, there are several ways to reduce your risk of getting CVS. One of these is wearing computer glasses.
Computer glasses, also known as blue light and computer protective glasses, are designed to filter out the blue light emitted from screens.
Computer protective glasses shield your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light, including eyestrain, blurred vision, dry eyes and headaches, which are all symptoms of CVS.
With this specialized eyewear, you can protect your eyes while working, watching videos, gaming or scrolling through your social media feeds.
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Purchasing Your First Computer Glasses
If you want to be sure you choose the right pair of computer protective glasses for your needs, follow these tips:
- Look for eyeglasses with a blue light filter.
The most important feature to look for in computer protective glasses is a blue light filter.
This filter blocks out the blue light emitted from screens, which can cause eye strain and fatigue.
Many brands offer computer glasses with a blue light filter, so make sure to check for this feature when shopping for a pair.
- Choose a lens type that suits you.
Blue light glasses come with different lens types. These are:
- Polarized lenses, which are great for reducing glare and are especially useful if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Anti-glare lenses, which are designed to reduce glare and reflections, making them ideal for use in bright environments.
- Progressive lenses, which are recommended for people who need both distance and reading eyeglasses, as they provide a seamless transition between the two prescriptions.
To choose the right type of lens, consider your lifestyle and how and where you will wear your glasses. Your eye specialist can also help you select the best one that suits your needs.
- Consider the frame size and shape.
The frame size and shape of computer glasses are important elements to consider since they can affect the level of comfort you’ll feel when you wear them.
If you have a small face, go for eyeglasses with smaller frames.
Consequently, if you have a round face, opt for spectacles with larger frames.
Additionally, consider the shape of the frames, as some may be more comfortable for you than others.
- Check the fit.
Make sure to try on the glasses before buying them to ensure they fit properly.
Your eyeglasses should sit comfortably on your nose and ears and the lenses should be centered in front of your eyes.
If the glasses don’t fit properly, you may feel uncomfortable wearing them for long periods.
- Find out if the glasses come with a warranty.
When buying computer glasses from an online or physical optical shop, it’s important to make sure that they come with a warranty.
A warranty can protect you in case the eyewear gets damaged or breaks within a specific timeframe.
It is crucial to follow this tip before buying your computer glasses online since they might get damaged during shipping.
Additionally, when buying computer glasses, it is vital to research the brand and the product. Read reviews and compare prices as well.
Lastly, check if the brand provides additional features like scratch resistance and UV protection.
Benefits of Wearing Computer Protective Glasses
Below are some of the specific benefits of getting and wearing computer protective glasses:
- They help reduce eye strain and fatigue.
When you spend long hours staring at a computer screen, your eyes are exposed to high levels of blue light, which can cause the mentioned CVS symptoms.
By wearing computer glasses, you can reduce the blue light that reaches your eyes and the symptoms it can cause.
As a result, you’ll feel more comfortable working at a computer or using your mobile device.
- They can help improve sleep quality.
Blue light has been shown to affect the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
By wearing computer glasses, you can lower the amount of blue light your eyes are exposed to. This can help promote your body’s production of melatonin and improve your sleep quality.
This is particularly important for people who work night shifts or spend a lot of time working on computers late into the evening.
- They can reduce the severity of headaches or migraines.
Blue light can trigger headaches and migraines in some people.
If you suffer from frequent headaches and migraines, wearing computer glasses can help reduce the amount of blue light that reaches your eyes and help reduce these symptoms.
Additionally, computer glasses can also be helpful for people who suffer from light sensitivity since they can reduce glare and improve visual comfort.
- They can improve your overall eye health.
Lastly, overexposure to blue light has been linked to an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of blindness.
You can reduce your eyes’ exposure to blue light by wearing computer glasses.
This can help you protect your vision and maintain good eye health.
Keep Your Eyes Healthy With the Proper Eye Care
Investing in a pair of computer glasses is a great way to protect your eyes from the blue light emitted from screens.
When buying your first computer protective glasses, choose a pair with a blue light filter and consider the lens type, frame size and shape, fit and warranty.
It’s also important to check reviews and compare prices to ensure you get the best deal on a quality pair of computer protective glasses.
And even if you have the right eyewear, reduce digital eyestrain by following the 20-20-20 rule, which entails looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
Modifying your workstation is also crucial for protecting your eyes when you work. Use a glare reduction filter, when possible, to reduce glare on the computer.
Reposition your screen and keep it clean to reduce glare and use drapes, shades or blinds to reduce the brightness in your office or home workspace.