We all know that the blue light that emits from our smartphones isn't good for our eyes, but a new study has discovered just how much damage it can cause.

我们都知道智能手机发出的蓝光对眼睛有伤害，但一项最新研究解释了蓝光能造成的伤害程度。

Researchers say that this light is absorbed by vital molecules in our retina and triggers the production of a toxic chemical that kill cells.

This damage can lead to large blind spots in our vision that are the hallmark of macular degeneration, a disease that leads to blindness.

The team from the University of Toledo in Ohio says it is urging the public to not use phones in the dark because this can dilate pupils and lead to even more harmful blue light entering our eyes.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss for those aged 50 or older, according to the National Eye Institute.

The condition occurs when the macula, an oval area near the center of the retina that allows for sharp vision, becomes damaged.

Sufferers will experience blurred vision or even 'blind spots' in their central vision that may grow larger as the retina dies.