Computer glasses are specialty eyeglasses made specifically to address the unique visual needs of extended computer and smartphone use. To address these needs, computer glasses are made completely differently, in a number of important ways, from regular eyeglasses and reading glasses. These significant differences are what make computer glasses absolutely essential for maintaining both your short term visual comfort and long term visual health as you work and play in a world increasingly dominated by computers and smartphones.
In explaining the benefits of computer glasses, Dr. Philips of Eyes of the World in Eugene, OR first points out, “Usually, computer screens are positioned around 20-26 inches from your eyes, in what is commonly referred to as your 'intermediate' zone of vision. Because traditional eyeglasses are not made in a way that is conducive to intermediate viewing of the type required by computer work, blurred vision, eyestrain and headaches often result. By comparison, computer glasses are specifically made to emphasize comfortable intermediate viewing, helping your eyes more easily focus on the computer screen with less effort and making computer viewing over an extended period of time noticeably more comfortable.”
Blue light is another important consideration when discussing the need for computer glasses. Dr. Philips explains, “Blue light comes from computer screens, televisions and smart phones, and has been known to cause eyestrain, headaches and fatigue. Even more alarming, recent studies also point to growing evidence that blue light exposure has the potential to significantly increase a person's risk of macular degeneration over time. Fortunately, the last few years have seen significant strides in blue light blocking technologies that can be widely applied to make computer glasses even more effective at protecting your eyes.”
Computer glasses are often equipped with specialty lenses, such as BluTech and Crizal Prevencia, that are meant to reduce or eliminate many of the harmful side effects linked to increased time in front of computers and other electronic devices. This is accomplished by selectively filtering out blue light, which enhances visual comfort and minimizes eyestrain. At the same time, these lenses allow non-harmful light to pass through, allowing for the clearest vision possible.
Specialty lens coatings may also be applied to computer glasses. Among the most popular of these specialty coatings is HOYA Recharge. This special lens treatment reflects about 30% of harmful blue light away from the eye. In conjunction with the specialty lenses mentioned above, HOYA Recharge can help significantly increase the amount of blue light filtered or reflected away from the eye, making computer use noticeably more comfortable.
Computer glasses are an absolute necessity for maintaining both your short term visual comfort and long term visual health as you work and play in a world increasingly dominated by computers and smart phones. For more information about how computer glasses can help you, speak to Dr. Philips today.
