As remote work and digital communication surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans have experienced a significant increase in screen time. This shift has brought about unintended consequences for eye health and overall well-being.
Dr. Rob J. Weinstock, Director of Cataract and Refractive Surgery at the Eye Institute of West Florida, explains: “All this increased time in front of phones, laptops, monitors, and TVs is leading to increased exposure to harmful high-energy blue light waves. It’s well known that overexposure to blue light suppresses melatonin release by the brain, which disrupts normal sleep patterns. Poor sleep in all age groups is known to be a factor in diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, as well as psychological conditions such as depression and attention deficit disorder (ADD).”
Common symptoms of excessive screen time include tired or itchy eyes, blurry vision, and dryness. These symptoms are often accompanied by headaches, neck and back pain, light sensitivity, and difficulty concentrating—hallmarks of digital eye strain.
To mitigate these effects, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. However, in many professional settings, such breaks may not always be feasible.
Dr. Weinstock suggests, “Since it’s not always practical to reduce screen time, I recommend investing in solutions that help filter out harmful blue light.” One such solution is Hazuki Glasses, which significantly reduce blue light exposure and block 99% of UV rays. They also offer magnification, with 1.32x being ideal for computer users.
Users report that Hazuki Glasses alleviate headaches, reduce eye strain, and improve sleep quality. These benefits contribute to better overall health, especially during periods of prolonged screen exposure.
As digital device usage continues to rise, especially in remote work environments, proactive eye care is essential. Incorporating protective eyewear and healthy screen habits can help preserve vision and enhance quality of life.
