Are you finding yourself on a screen more often? Have your in-person meetings all been changed to online sessions?
You are not alone. People all over are spending greater amounts of time using screens and digital devices. All this extra time spent interacting with screens is enhancing the experience of digital eye strain.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain is a group of vision-related problems that result from heavy use of screens and electronic devices. With prolonged use of screens, you can start to experience pain and other symptoms.
Symptoms of digital eyes strain can include:
- Sore, tired, burning or itching eyes
- Watery or dry eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Headache
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Feeling like you cannot keep your eyes open
Computer Vision Syndrome
The American Optometric Association explains that extended use of screens and other digital devices is one of the most common causes of digital eye strain. They use the term Computer Vision Syndrome to explain this condition.
What Can Be Done?
Always wear blue light blocking lenses when utilizing screens.
Be sure to look away from your screen intentionally. When looking away, be sure to look at items that are far away to give the muscles in your eyes a break.
Find ways to reduce glare that is present on your screen.
Blink purposely and frequently. Often, blinking is reduced while reading on a screen. Be mindful and blink often to keep your eyes from feeling dried out.
Be mindful of your posture. This can impact pain experienced in your neck, shoulders, and your frequency of headaches.
Set a timer and look away from screens at least every 20 minutes. Even looking away for a few seconds can have a major impact on whether you experience digital eye strain or not.
Source:
Mayo Clinic (2018). Eyestrain. Resource at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eyestrain/symptoms-causes/syc-20372397
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