Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is common in adults who work on the computer for many hours every day. However, it can also occur in children who spend significant time on digital devices such as smart phones or tablets.
In this post, your local optometrist, Vienna Eyecare Center, discusses how you can get relief from digital eye strain.
What Causes Digital Eye Strain?
Using the computer or a digital screen requires a lot of effort from the eyes. The monitor doesn’t provide the sharpness and contrast of a printed text. In addition, the glare of the monitor makes viewing harder. When looking at a screen, your eyes have to continually re-focus, which causes strain and fatigue over time.
Uncorrected vision problems can also make the condition worse. If you wear contact lenses or eyeglasses, you may have difficulty viewing screens if your prescription isn’t suitable for computer use. This may cause you to tilt your head or move close to the monitor to see more clearly, which can result in improper posture, another contributing factor for digital eye strain.
How to Minimize Digital Eye Strain
Wearing special eyeglasses that are meant for computer use can help minimize symptoms of digital eye strain. If you have problems with focusing or eye coordination, vision therapy may also help.
Changes in how you use your computer can also reduce eye discomfort. Place your computer away from overhead lighting or windows to avoid glare. You may also use drapes or blinds on the windows. The lights can be replaced with bulbs of lower voltage.
Take breaks from time to time. We recommend resting your eyes for 15 minutes after every two hours of computer use. In addition, observe the 20-20-20 rule: after 20 minutes of screen time, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
You tend to blink less when working in front of the computer, and this may lead to dry eyes. Make it a habit to blink frequently keep your eyes lubricated.
Visit your local eye doctor, Vienna Eyecare Center, if you’re experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain. We provide treatment for various vision problems as well as vision correction. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or make an appointment online. We help patients in Vienna, Reston and McLean, VA.
