The brain controls the sleep-wake cycle. The primary trigger of the wake cycle is light. In general, light hits specific receptors inside the eye, sending signals to the brain to generate a state of wakefulness.
As light becomes dimmer, the production of a hormone known as melatonin skyrockets. As a result, you will feel sleepy and drowsy.
Blue light and circadian rhythm
The circadian rhythm is controlled by a system in the brain known as the circadian pacemaker.
During different times of the day, your circadian pacemaker sends various signals to the body to regulate sleep and wakefulness.
Light is the most powerful influencer of this system, as it is responsible for the production of melatonin.
Usually, when the light interacts with specific receptors in the eye, the circadian pacemaker receives signals, which stimulate the brain to induce feelings of wakefulness.
When the light dims down, the secretion of melatonin ramps up. Melatonin will exert its action on different parts of the brain, triggering a general feeling of drowsiness.
As you can expect, this system is subject to disruptions that lead to sleep disorders (e.g., hypersomnia, insomnia).
Furthermore, research studies found that many employees deal with the serious side effects of facing their screens for too long. This was especially true with tech and IT companies.
Blue light and eye strain
Many people experience eye discomfort and vision issues after staring at digital screens for a prolonged time.
According to reports, the average American worker spends 7 hours a day on a computer (office hours + working from home). This should give you an idea about the insanely high incidence of eye strain after digital device use.
Along with eye strain, patients may experience other symptoms that fall into a collection of presentations known as computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain symptoms.
The most common symptoms in this category are:
· Eyestrain
· Headaches
· Blurred vision
· Dry eyes
· Neck and shoulder pain
While scientists are still unsure about the triggers of these symptoms, blue light toxicity tops the list of risk factors.
Takeaway message
We hope that this article will serve as a guideline to improve your vision and prevent any eye disorders. However, if you develop any unusual eye symptoms, make sure to speak with your primary care physician or ophthalmologist for tailored medical advice.
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