Despite the fact that the idea of using colored lenses to alleviate visual stress and make reading easier is now about 35 years old, "visual stress" isn't a recognized disorder. Similarly, there hasn't been a lot of research done that validates the use of colored lenses to make reading easier, and the studies that have been done are in conflict with each other. That leaves patients wondering what they should do to try to make it easier to read and function in our information-heavy society where reading is so important to both work and leisure. Here are some suggestions.
Invest in lenses that have a coating to reduce UV glare.
Investing in lenses that are coated to reduce the ultraviolet light that comes from every computer screen, e-reader, tablet, and smartphone you own or are exposed to is just a smart idea. Eyestrain caused by computer use often registers as fatigue, headaches, sensitivity to light, or even a backache or neck ache. You may just have dry, red eyes and, eventually, blurred vision. If you start out your day without these symptoms and end up with them almost every night, it's probably a good sign that it's time to get computer glasses.
The main source of the eye strain is UV light in the ultraviolet range, sometimes called "blue light." While a certain amount of UV light is beneficial, too much exposure to modern electronics is overwhelming for many people. There are a number of different UV-blocking coatings available that will protect your eyes but still leave your lenses virtually clear. Talk to your optometrist about which UV-blocking coating is right for your needs.
Consider adding a custom tint to your lenses.
Your lenses can be tinted just about any shade of the rainbow—however, figuring out exactly what shade works best for you might be somewhat complicated. A 2014 study indicated that blue or yellow tones work best to reduce visual stress and make reading easier, but a 2002 study (which is the only other broadly supportive study that supports the use of colored lenses) suggests that the exact color that's necessary depends entirely on the individual.
It may take some trial and error on your part to figure out what works best. You may be able to simulate the effect of tinted lenses in your optometrist's office by asking if you can use the lenses they have with sample colors to look through while you try to read a test chart (or even right off your smartphone). You could also invest in a few pairs of cheap sunglasses in different colors and put them over your glasses for a few days to see which color reduces your visual stress the most.
For more advice on how to handle this issue, which is definitely becoming more widely recognized in the modern day, talk to your optometrist.
Share21 December 2016
Hello, my name is Simon. Welcome to my site about optical goods. Until recently, my vision remained at a borderline level, so I only needed glasses for reading. As old age set in, my vision started to rapidly decline. I was given a prescription for stronger lenses that I had to wear full time. Since the prescription drastically changed, I had to take care while selecting the frames and lenses from the various options available at the optician’s office. I will use this site to walk everyone through the eye exam and optical goods selection process. Please feel free to stop by anytime to learn about optical goods.