Digital eye strain is not something you think about a lot, but once it affects your vision, it’s hard not to notice. With the rise of the digital era, protecting your eyes from computer screens and smartphones has become more critical than ever.
Reducing screen time appears to be the simplest solution, but that’s not an option for those who have to use computers throughout the day. However, with some simple preventive measures, you can protect your eyes from the harmful effects of digital screens.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a group of vision-related conditions caused by prolonged use of computers, tablets, and smartphones. Blurred vision, headaches, a foreign body sensation, tearing, and even neck and shoulder pains are various symptoms of digital eye strain.
In most cases, these issues are caused by staring at a screen for a long time without taking breaks. Other factors, such as lighting, poor posture, uncorrected vision problems, and screen angle, can intensify these issues. Nowadays, if proper precautions are not taken, anyone can affect by this problem.
Follow 20/20/20 Rule
Most eye specialists recommend following the 20/20/20 rule. This rule suggests taking 20 second break every 20 minutes and focusing on anything 20 feet away. This allows your eyes to rest from staring at something close to your face and refocus. It would help if you also give your eyes a 15-minute break from screens after every two hours of work.
Use Proper Lighting
Excessively bright light, either from sunlight or harsh interior lighting, can cause digital eye strain. You can close window shades or blinds to reduce excessive exterior light, and it would be beneficial to use lower-intensity light bulbs and tubes.
Adjust your computer screen to avoid glare from windows or overhead lighting. If this is not possible, use a screen glare filter to reduce the amount of light reflected from the screen.
Blink More
Blinking is an involuntary action. But if you spend all day in front of a computer screen, you should make an extra effort to blink more frequently.
Blinking produces moisture which is very beneficial for your eyes. On average, a person blinks 15 times per minute. However, studies show that blinking occurs only about five to seven times per minute when using computers and other digital screen devices.
A lapse in blinking can cause dryness, irritation, reduced vision, discomfort, and a loss of concentration, all of which can lead to reduced efficiency of your eyes.
Try Palming
Palming is an eye meditation technique. It consists of closing your eyes and covering them with the centres of your palms. Tension in your shoulders and neck can contribute to eye strain, so relaxing that area with a massage or deep breathing can help. As you take slow and deep breaths, it relaxes your eye muscles, as well as your shoulders and neck.
Regular Eye Test
Regular eye tests are also beneficial for monitoring and reducing the symptoms of digital eye strain. The most important aspect is to pay attention to your eyes and provide them with the necessary breaks and adjustments. Setting a timer can help you remember to take a break if you have trouble separating yourself from your work.
If you follow these tips mentioned above, you should be able to continue working on computers without strain. If you are suffering from severe digital eye strain issues, visit Arora Eye Centre, where you will get the highest possible personalized care and treatment with the assistance of the latest technologies.
