PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL
Dear HIW, How does reading physical books and magazines compare to reading text on a screen? Can reading on a screen damage your eyes?
Kenneth Lewis
One of the main differences is the blue light exposure that comes with reading from a backlit screen. This can cause your eyes to strain due to the short wavelength of blue light. A screen’s light focuses on the front of the retina and can damage cells with prolonged use. Reading on a digital screen can also keep you up at night, as it prevents the brain from releasing the hormone that induces sleep, melatonin. However, one of the benefits to your eyes when reading on a device with a backlit screen is that you have more control over how the text is presented. For example, you can increase the font size to reduce eye strain.
People blink more when reading paper books, preventing dry eyes