What is digital eye strain & how to prevent it

What causes computer vision syndrome

Computer vision syndrome often results from spending prolonged amounts of time staring at digital screens. This affects your eyes and vision because when you’re busy working, playing games or reading on digital screens, you may tend to:

Blink less, which lessens moisture and makes you more prone to dry eyes
Stare at devices with a glare or reflection without protecting your eyes
Use devices with bad contrast between text and background, making the eyes work harder
Work or view digital screens at an uncomfortable distance or angle, straining the neck and back muscles
View digital screens without prescription glasses, causing the eyes to strain

Symptoms of computer vision syndrome

Eye fatigue
Dry or red eyes
Blurred vision
Headaches
Eye twitching
Watery or tearing eyes
Increased sensitivity to lights
Neck and shoulder pain

How to prevent digital eye strain

Sometimes cutting your screen time isn’t an option. If your job requires you to work in front of a computer or if avoiding a digital screen seems impossible, there are a few adjustments you can make to help prevent digital eye strain, such as:

Change Your position: Your face should be about arm’s length from your digital screen and slightly below eye level to help prevent straining of the neck, back and eyes.
Adjust the Lighting: Use a matte screen filter to reduce the glare. Working in a well-lit room can also help reduce eye strain.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes give your eyes a break from staring at a screen by looking at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds or more.
Use a Humidifier: To alleviate dryness caused from computer eye strain, use a humidifier to bring moisture into the room.

Arranging an eye exam

If your eyes are feeling heavy or irritated after staring at a digital screen, make an appointment at your local Pearle Vision EyeCare Centre. During your visit you can also ask about glasses for eye strain and ask any other questions you may have.

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