The digital era has several benefits, but too much exposure to any habit can be harmful. With the kind of life we lead, screen time is an unavoidable part of our routine. Hence, it is essential to take care of your vision. Let us understand what digital eye strain is and what you can do to relieve the pain caused by it.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, digital eye strain causes vision issues and irritated and dry eyes due to the use of digital devices. In simple terms, digital eye strain is the discomfort caused to the eyes because of using computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
People who spend more than three hours a day using an electronic device can suffer from digital eye strain over time, including children.
Why do Screens Cause Digital Eye Strain?
Since our eyes cannot perform repetitive tasks for long hours, staring at screens can cause digital eye strain. However, when we do so, our eyes feel tired, irritated and strained, much like any other muscle in our body after repeated use. Moreover, our eyes tend to exert more effort when using screens. Anyone using their digital devices for an extended time can suffer from digital eye strain.
Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
Someone suffering from digital eye strain can experience the following symptoms –
- Dry eyes
- Difficulty in focusing
- Heavy eyelids or drowsiness
- Itchy and sore eyes
- Headache
- Sore neck and stiff shoulders
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
Knowing the symptoms will help you take preventive measures to treat digital eye strain.
5 Tips to Prevent Digital Eye Strain
Following are the five tips that can help relieve the effects of digital eye strain.
Tip #1: Reorganise your workspace ergonomics
Workspace ergonomics helps increase productivity and comfort. Hence, select a desk chair that supports your body and allows you to sit comfortably and up straight. It is also essential to adjust your desktop screen or laptop to be at an arm’s length away and at/or near your eye level. Ensuring the screen is aligned with your head will take the strain off your eyes and neck. Ideally, screens should be kept in front of your face and a little below eye level for optimal comfort.
Tip #2: Adjust the Lighting
The device light, screen glare, and room light can affect your vision and increase the strain on your eyes. Try to increase the device’s brightness when you’re in a bright environment (indoors or outdoors). Similarly, lower the brightness when you’re in dark spaces.
Tip #3: Take Regular Breaks
Constantly staring at your screen can increase digital eye strain. Hence, refrain from looking at the screen continuously and give your eyes a break. Try the 20-20-20 rule: take 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.
Tip #4: Use Eye Drops or Eye Masks
Using eye care solutions like eye drops or warming masks will help relieve the pain caused by digital eye strain. Thealoz® Duo dry eye drops are 100% preservative FREE and suitable for all dry eye sufferers, including contact lens wearers, as they combine both long-lasting relief and protection for the surface of the eyes. They are clinically proven to treat symptoms of dry eye.
Additionally, the Blepha® Eyebag is a clinically proven, reusable warming eye mask for rapid and long-lasting relief of dry, tired, sore eyes and symptoms of Blepharitis. It is easy to use, microwaveable and recommended by Ophthalmologists.
Tip #5: Get your Vision Examined
Regular eye checkups can help you understand your eye health and take necessary measures to improve it. Untreated eye conditions can affect your vision and lead to serious eye issues. Hence, keep your vision in check and get updates on your eye health with a routine eye exam.
We understand that reducing screen time in this digital era is near impossible. However, understanding what digital eye strain is, its symptoms and following preventive measures will allow you to take care of your vision in the long run.
