It seems like computers, smart phones and tablets are an indispensable part of our lives for work, hobbies and home life. Have you ever considered how much time you spend with your eyes on a screen?
Earlier this year, the Vision Council did some research on digital use and found that more than 93 percent of adults spend more than two hours each day on a digital device. Sixty percent spend five hours or more. If you have ever felt physical discomfort after viewing a screen for more than two hours, you’ve suffered from digital eye strain.
Here are the most commonly used digital devices, per the Vision Council.
Blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, neck/shoulder/back pain and general discomfort are all symptoms of digital eye strain. Taking a break every 20 minutes for 20 seconds and looking at something 20 feet away is a great way to give your eyes some rest. Other things you can do to alleviate digital eye strain include:
- Increase the text size on devices to better define content on your screen.
- Set up your desk for maximum comfort. When sitting in your chair with your arm extended, your palm should rest comfortably on the monitor.
- Consider eyewear specifically designed for computer work. Glasses with blue light blocking, anti-reflective coating and/or progressive lenses can provide substantial relief to people who spend long hours in front of a screen.
If you think you are suffering from digital eye strain, please let us know. We can discuss various options for relief, from dry eye treatment to special lenses. As always, give us a call or schedule an appointment online.