Categories: Eye Care

Vision Care 101: All About Digital Eye Strain

With all of today’s technology, it’s not surprising that you spend a good part of your day staring at digital screens like those on computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. You may experience digital eye strain if you spend more than two hours staring at these devices.

Digital eye strain is the physical eye discomfort felt after prolonged exposure to digital screens. Fortunately, tools are available to minimize the effects of this problem. When used in tandem with eye health tips by your trusted optometrist in Vienna, VA, you can protect yourself from further vision damage.

Digital Eye Strain: An Overview

Nearly 90% of adults spend more than two hours a day using a digital device, with 10% spending at least three-fourths of their waking hours on these devices. It appears that we have completely embraced the digital world, as more of our hobbies and activities are moving online. Studies indicate that adults use their gadgets to simplify daily activities, such as finding a recipe (96%), shopping (59% of individuals in their 40s), and getting directions (56% of women and 51% of men).

Digital eye strain can affect your eye health and general lifestyle. Some of the problems that come with it include dry and irritated eyes, blurry vision, and eye fatigue. While digital eye strain is a common occurrence today, 90% of patients tend to ignore its symptoms. Keep in mind that it’s important to talk to an expert eye doctor in Reston, VA, about your digital device usage for better monitoring of your eye needs.

Tips to Prevent Digital Eye Strain

If you’re experiencing digital eye strain, here are some tips to help alleviate the damage:

  • Maintain a comfortable working distance at the computer screen.
  • When using a phone, make sure that you keep the screen as far away as possible, provided the text and images are large enough for comfortable viewing.
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes spent staring at a digital screen, take a break for at least 20 seconds and look at something 20 feet away.
  • Get an eye exam.
  • Ask your eye doctor about the recommended eyeglasses in McLean, VA, to avoid blue light. Make sure the lenses have an anti-reflective (AR) coating.

If you want to know more about digital eye strain, our specialists at Vienna Eyecare Center can help. We have been providing topnotch eye care services in the area for over 30 years. Simply give us a call at (703) 938-7633 or complete our form to schedule a visit today.

Nicole Ardura

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