Screen-Based Eye Strain
What does your technology do for you? Today, we can order dinner, buy concert tickets, chat with friends, play games, and even work, all from virtually any device with a screen. Smartphones, gaming consoles, computers, and tablets make our lives more convenient.
However, there are some drawbacks to increased screen time. It’s almost impossible to get away from devices at school, work, and home, and as a result, an estimated 60–65% of Americans suffer from discomfort related to digital eye strain. Too much screen time can also affect how kids’ eyes develop, linking to an increased risk of myopia (nearsightedness).
If you’re experiencing eye discomfort after staring at your screen, we can help. We’ll assess your screen habits and provide some strategies to mitigate your discomfort.
Book an appointment to find relief from digital eye strain today.
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Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
There are a few common symptoms associated with digital eye strain, including:
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Eye strain
- Blurry vision
- Neck and shoulder pain
Often, symptoms will alleviate when you take a solid screen time break, but the discomfort returns once you’re in front of a digital device again. To find long-term relief, you’ll need to implement some prevention strategies.
It’s also important to visit your optometrist to help detect any other conditions that might affect your eye comfort.
Book AppointmentMitigating Digital Eye Strain
There are a number of things you can do to help alleviate some of the strain that can accompany digital devices. By employing various strategies in your daily life, you can make your eyes more comfortable and prevent fatigued and strained eyes after a long day in front of the computer.
Some strategies include adjusting your work area, taking intentional screen breaks, and ensuring you have sufficient lighting while using your digital device to help reduce digital eye strain. It’s also important to make sure your prescription is up-to-date, as uncorrected or undercorrected vision problems can contribute to digital eye strain.
Ergonomics
Office (or classroom) ergonomics and proper posture can help keep you comfortable while using digital devices. While you’re at your desk, be sure to sit upright with your feet flat on the floor. Your shoulders should not be rounded or hunched, and your neck should align with your torso.
Keep devices at eye level and your keyboard and mouse near enough to prevent reaching.
Remind kids to keep their backs lined up with their chairs, or imagine keeping their backs straight as a tree.
Settings
If you’re reading on your digital device, increase the font size to minimize squinting. Contrast and color tones should also be set to maximize your comfort.
Talk to your child about what font size feels most comfortable for them and help them make appropriate contrast adjustments. Keep an eye on them during screen time to make sure they aren’t squinting or holding the device too close to their face.
Lighting Levels
The light levels both in the room around you and on your device can help prevent digital eye strain. Turn down your screen’s brightness to match the lighting levels of your surroundings. If the light from the room reflects on your screen, the glare can also contribute to eye strain.
Anti-glare screens are available for your device’s display, and glasses with an anti-reflective coating can help.
Remind your kids to turn on the lights in dark rooms to avoid tired eyes.
The 20-20-20 Rule
When you’re concentrating on your work, it might be challenging to take a break, but following the 20-20-20 rule can help to relax your eyes. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps give your eyes a chance to refocus, reducing strain.
Set a reminder on your phone or set up parental controls on your kid’s device for scheduled breaks and screen time limits.
Kids and Digital Eye Strain
Increased device use also means kids are spending more time indoors. The World Health Organization recommends limiting screen time for children and encouraging them to play outside instead.
Children should have regular, comprehensive eye exams to support the health of their vision, regardless of their screen time. Schedule eye exams at regular intervals to support your child’s eye health.
Take Care of Your and Your Family’s Eyes
Whether you spend your working hours on a computer or enjoy leisure time watching TV, playing video games, or checking social media, you may have experienced digital eye strain. While less time on screens is an effective way to prevent this strain, it is not always possible.
If you or your family members have been experiencing frequent digital eye strain, it may be time to discuss management options with your optometrist. They can make sure your prescription is correct and provide other advice or tools that may alleviate your symptoms. Book your appointment today.
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