I started getting headaches late last year, which would surface around lunchtime and progressively worsen until I was stress-eating crumpets and going to bed at 9:30pm (by necessity, not choice).
I tried downloading the Calm app, started exercising more and I gave yoga a go. But still, the headaches persisted Every. Single. Day.
I finally made a connection between the pain and the fact I was ALWAYS staring at some sort of screen, thanks to work, Disney + and relentless Whatsapp groups.
Not wanting to erm, quit my job and forego my digital friendships, I decided to investigate.
I discovered blue light-blocking glasses which essentially filter out harmful rays and help reduce eye strain.
Dr Aragona Giuseppe, a GP and medical advisor atPrescription Doctor, explains, "These types of glasses have filters in their lenses that will either block or absorb blue light as well as UV light from getting through."
"This means that if you wear these glasses whilst using technologies such as a phone, iPad or computer screen, more predominantly at night or in a dimly lit room, they can help reduce your exposure to blue light waves."
When I first wore a pair (£16 from Amazon, lovely) I was shocked at how quickly my headaches vanished.
Spoiler alert: they have changed my life.
But, have I fallen for a placebo or is there science-based evidence to back this up?
"Yes, there is evidence that blue light blocking glasses work", confirms Dr Giuseppe.
"Blue light blocking glasses should help with headaches and migraines as blue light can in fact cause headaches, especially in those who are more prone to headaches and migraines. Many blue light blocking lenses block blue light and in turn will help minimise symptoms of reoccurring headaches."
"I would definitely recommend those who do a lot of screen work to invest in these type of glasses as they will help to block the harmful effects that blue light have and should help minimise health problems such as eye sensitivity, headaches and trouble sleeping."
There you go. If you're experiencing headaches from too much screen time, then blue blocking glasses may be for you.
This is the specific pair that I can vouch for works WONDERS and they're available in three shades. Thank me later.
Important: Please visit your GP if your headaches persist or worsen.
The blue light blocking glasses I swear by
1 of 7Blue Light Filter Glasses in clear
4 of 7TIJN Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Animal print bags and coats are simply not enough - we need these animal print frames with blue light-blocking lenses. The frame is lightweight, which means no more pesky headaches, and the square design is sure to suit many face shapes.
£11.99
5 of 7ASOS DESIGN Blue Light Clear Lens Glasses in Blue Crystal
These ASOS frames are designed with a subtle blue clear frame which we're ob-sessed with. They contain blue light lenses, moulded nose pads and are made from recycled plastic - we love an eco-friendly product.
6 of 7Quay, Roll With It Glasses
Quay Australia (you know, the brand behind all the Love Island shades) is offering up these cool and stylish round blue-light glasses with a gold metal outer.
7 of 7Quay Australia, Call The Shots Blue Light Glasses
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Other ways to help screen-induced headaches:
Implement a phone ban: choose a cut off time (say 8pm) and leave your phone in a different room as you relax and unwind for the evening.
Start reading: instead of turning to a scroll on the 'gram when you get bored, try and get into the habit of picking up a book or listening to a podcast instead.
Try the 20-20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes spent staring at a laptop screen, you should try to look away at something that is 20 feet away from you for a total of 20 seconds. Game-changer.