New Product to Protect Your Eyes When Using Smartphones, Tablets and Computers

SUGAR LAND, Texas - Nov. 12, 2013 - PRLog -- There are 140 million smartphone users in the U.S. according to research firm eMarketer.  As of 2011, more than 75% of households have at least one computer per the U.S. Census Bureau.  A national survey found that children 8- to 18- years spend seven and a half hours per day on some type of digital media.  The digital age is now, and is here to stay.

Desktops, laptops, tablets, phones and televisions all emit high-energy visible light (HEV).  Long-term exposure to this type of radiation has been shown in clinical studies to increase the risk for cataracts, macular degeneration and other retinopathies in the eyes.  In addition, the American Medical Association recognized that HEV exposure at night to be a causative factor in sleep disorders especially in children and adolescents.

HEV affects the amount of melatonin that is made.  Melatonin is produced in the pineal gland, and regulates the sleep-wake cycle.  During the daytime, the amount of melatonin in the body decreases when we are supposed to be alert. At nighttime, the amount of melatonin increases as the body prepares itself for sleep.  However, exposure to HEV at nighttime decreases melatonin and increases alertness.  Estimates indicate that one-third of Americans experience sleeping difficulties.

Macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans over the age of 60 years.  AMD affects the back of the eye called the macula. The macula is responsible for fine-detailed eyesight.  HEV causes oxidative stress to the rods and cones in the macula, and begins the degeneration that leads to vision loss.

Since digital devices are so prevalent, and the use of them are so important in today’s society, certain precautions can be taken to help protect the eyes as well as mitigate sleeping difficulties.  Young children, people with macular degeneration, people with a history of macular degeneration, people with light-colored eyes and those with known sleeping difficulties are at highest risk for complications due to HEV.  Other than just not using these devices, one of the best ways to protect the eyes would be to block out HEV from even reaching the eyes.  We are excited to be able to now offer a new technology that filters out HEV.  These special prescription lenses will protect your eyes while maintaining clarity and color.