Screen-Based Strain
What does your technology do for you? Today, we can order dinner, buy concert tickets, chat with friends, play games, and even work from virtually any device with a screen. Smartphones, gaming consoles, computers, and tablets make our lives more convenient.
But there are some drawbacks to increased screen time. It’s almost impossible to get away from our devices, and as a result, many Canadians experience symptoms related to digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome.
If you’re experiencing eye discomfort after staring at your screen, we can help. We can assess your screen habits and provide strategies and tools to mitigate your discomfort.
Book an appointment to find relief from digital eye strain today.
Book AppointmentSymptoms of Digital Eye Strain
There are a few common symptoms of digital eye stain, including:
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Strained eyes
- Blurry vision
- Watery eyes
Often, taking a screen break can help alleviate your symptoms. But discomfort can return once you’re in front of a digital device again. In order to find relief in the long term, you may need to implement some mitigation strategies.
It’s also important to visit your optometrist to assess whether there’s another underlying condition contributing to your symptoms.
Book AppointmentMitigation Strategies for Digital Eye Strain
Several strategies are available to help alleviate some of the strain that can accompany digital devices. These strategies can make your eyes more comfortable and prevent fatigue and strain after a long day in front of the computer.
Some strategies include adjusting your work area, taking intentional screen breaks, and using sufficient ambient lighting while using your digital device to help reduce digital eye strain. It’s also important to make sure your prescription is up-to-date, as uncorrected or undercorrected vision problems can contribute to digital eye strain.
Ergonomics
Office ergonomics and proper posture can help keep you comfortable while using digital devices. While you’re at your desk, be sure to sit upright with your feet flat on the floor. Your shoulders should not be rounded or hunched, and your neck should align with your torso.
Keep devices just below eye level, and your keyboard and mouse near enough to prevent reaching.
Settings
If you’re reading on your digital device, increase the font size to minimize squinting. Contrast and colour tones should also be set to maximize your comfort.
Lighting Levels
The levels of light both in the room around you and on your device can prevent digital eye strain. Turn down your screen’s brightness to match the lighting levels of your surroundings. If the light from the room is reflecting on your screen, the glare can also contribute to eye strain.
Anti-glare screens are available for your device’s display, and glasses with an anti-reflective coating can help.
The 20-20-20 Rule
When you’re concentrating on your work, it might be challenging to take a break, but following the 20-20-20 rule can help to relax your eyes. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps give your eyes refocus, reducing strain.
Kids and Digital Eye Strain
Adults use screens frequently, but they’re creeping into kids' lives too. Studies show that the risk of children developing visual issues increases after 2–4 hours of screen time.
Increased device use also means kids are spending more time indoors. Lack of outdoor play can be a risk factor in the development of myopia.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that children avoid screen time 1 hour before bedtime and never bring a screen into their bedrooms. Breaks should be encouraged frequently when kids are using screens, particularly outdoor breaks for whole-body physical activity.
Children should have regular, comprehensive eye exams to assess the health of their vision, regardless of their screen time.
Take Care of Your Eyes Today
Whether you spend your working hours on a computer or enjoy leisure time watching TV, playing video games, or checking social media, you may have experienced digital eye strain. While less time on screens is an effective way to prevent this strain, it is not always possible.
If you or your family members have been experiencing frequent digital eye strain, it may be time to discuss management options with your optometrist. They can make sure your prescription is correct and provide other advice or tools that may alleviate your symptoms. Book your appointment today.
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