Hi, what are you looking for?
Technology, particularly prolonged screen time, can lead to temporary eye strain and discomfort, but it does not cause permanent vision loss.
By
Published
Studies by the ophthalmology and visual science journal AJO International show that lifestyle habits significantly affect eye health, with factors like screen time and sleep posture contributing to issues like myopia. In conjunction, the company Overnight Glasses has gathered feedback from its customers, revealing further insights about nighttime habits that may be impacting eye health — including blue light exposure, sleep positions, and dry air.
The findings relate to a survey of UK based consumers and each finding is supported by an advice recommendation, suggested by the firm.
These issues are worthy of consideration in our world that increasingly relies on technology for communication, work, and even entertainment. The constant exposure to digital devices raises questions as to the impact on our vision.
Reel Scrolling
Impact: 25% of people customers mentioned feeling eye fatigue and blurry vision after prolonged scrolling through TikTok or Instagram Reels late at night. The blue light from these screens disrupts sleep cycles by suppressing melatonin production. There is some evidence for its link to eye damage from digital screens, however this remains inconclusive.
Generally, the evidence shows no meaningful link between blue light and:
Age-related macular degeneration.
Damage to human retinas.
Tonight, do this: Limit screen time before bed, or use blue light-blocking glasses to protect your eyes.
Face-Down Sleeping
Impact: 18% of people mentioned feeling blurry vision and discomfort due to sleeping face-down or pressing their face into a pillow. This increases pressure inside the eye, which could lead to long-term conditions like glaucoma.
Tonight, do this: Sleep with your head elevated and avoid stomach sleeping to reduce pressure on the eyes.
Sleep is of importance when it comes to preserving good vision, with some studies demonstrating how it may be a critical factor in maintaining ocular health and preventing the onset of myopia. An association between longer sleep duration and a lower risk of myopia has been observed, indicating a possible cumulative effect of sleeping time.
Sleeping with Makeup on
Impact: 16% of those polled mentioned they sleep in their makeup. This clogs pores and irritates the eyes, leading to an increased risk of infection.
Tonight, do this: Don’t forget to remove your makeup before bed to prevent irritation and allow your eyes and skin to recover.
Wearing Contacts Overnight
Impact: 15% mentioned they are leaving their contact lenses in overnight. This restricts oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to dry eyes, increased risk of infection, and difficulty seeing clearly.
Tonight, do this: Always remove your contact lenses before bed to allow your eyes to breathe and recover.
Many people focus on protecting their eyes during the day, but nighttime habits matter just as much. Simple changes — like maintaining eye-friendly air in your bedroom or adjusting your sleep position — can make a significant difference in preserving your vision over the long term.
Dr. Tim Sandle is Digital Journal’s Editor-at-Large for science news. Tim specializes in science, technology, environmental, business, and health journalism. He is additionally a practising microbiologist; and an author. He is also interested in history, politics and current affairs.
By 2030, over 85 million jobs could remain vacant due to a lack of skilled individuals, highlighting tech talent scarcity as a major challenge…
A German music rights body is suing OpenAI for copyright infringement, claiming the US tech AI systems reproduced several artists’ lyrics.
Immigration is an explosive issue in Britain, sparking protests on both sides, such as this ‘March for Remigration’ in Manchester in August calling for…
Cybersecurity: Many security tools incorrectly assume devices and apps behave in predictable ways.
COPYRIGHT © 1998 – 2024 DIGITAL JOURNAL INC. Sitemaps: XML / News . Digital Journal is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more about our external linking.
Night vision: Technology and the impact on eyesight – Digital Journal
