The increase in the use of digital devices during the pandemic
The pandemic has changed our lives. We now go out less, wash our hands more, and perhaps appreciate more what surrounds us, from our loved ones to clean air, space, and tranquility. We have changed, some would argue for the better; others for the worse. But if there is one thing that is undoubtedly different, it is the way we interact with each other and the role that screens play in this.
During the months of lockdown, the use of electronic devices such as televisions and computers increased significantly due to limited entertainment options. Netflix, video calls, and online workouts were the only ways to stay engaged during the pandemic. While this has helped us stay connected, it has also had very negative effects on our health.
How does screen use affect us?
A new study published in the journal Sleep reveals that increased screen time at night during the Covid-19 lockdown negatively affects sleep quality.
During the lockdown period in Italy, daily internet traffic volume nearly doubled compared to the same period the previous year. Researchers conducted an online survey of 2,123 Italian residents during the third and seventh weeks of Italy's first national lockdown. The survey was conducted in the third week of lockdown (March 25-28, 2020) and assessed sleep quality and insomnia symptoms using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Insomnia Severity Index as measurement tools. The second assessment survey, in the seventh week of lockdown (April 21-27, 2020), inquired about electronic device use in the two hours before falling asleep, in addition to repeating the sleep questionnaires. Of the participants surveyed, 92.9% reported an increase in electronic device use between the first and second surveys. These participants showed decreased sleep quality, increased insomnia symptoms, shorter total sleep times, and later bedtimes and wake-up times. The researchers found an increase in the prevalence of poor sleepers and respondents with moderate to severe insomnia symptoms only within this group of respondents.
The effect of blue light
If you have read any of our previous posts, you will already know that the relationship between blue light and insomnia is very strange. But the repercussions have continued even after lockdown ended in many parts of the world.
The increase in remote working, video calls, and limited entertainment options have continued, and this effectively means overexposure to blue light. We are concerned about the repercussions of this.
According to studies, more people have become nearsighted or have dry eyes after screen time has increased by approximately 70%. This is due to constant strain on the cornea as a result of the stress placed on the eye. Dr. Sonam, a Columbia University-certified ophthalmologist, sums up the problem as follows: "People should take more breaks from screen time. When a patient stares at a screen, they blink less. Assuming someone works at a screen hour after hour, every 20 minutes they should take a 20-second break to look into the distance. However, if we tell people to take a break, most people pick up their phone, but you should look out the window."
The solution: Protect yourself with blue light glasses
Following the advice of experts, it is important to pay attention to eyes that feel tired. Dr. Sonam herself recommends that people have their eyes tested every one or two years, but always make an appointment sooner if you have any problems. "Often, when someone has difficulties with their eyes, something is wrong, but because most people do not undergo regular examinations, the first symptoms of corneal degeneration can be overlooked."
Regular breaks during working hours, eye checkups, and the use of eye protection against blue light radiation, such as your Apricotte glasses, can be key factors in keeping your eyes healthy and refreshed. That's why at Apricotte we want to encourage you to take care of yourself, and we offer you our computer glasses and biohackers sleep glasses, because if the eyes are the windows to the soul, we just hope that you are W.E.L.See full article
Blue light at night: the hidden enemy of your sleep and well-being
We live in a world where artificial light surrounds us at all hours. From cell phone and computer screens to LED lighting in our homes, exposure to blue light has become constant. However, when night falls, this light can become a silent enemy to our health.
