The increase in how many devices people use today compared to the past has tripled. It used to be that we looked at books and magazines and TV the most; now there are phones, laptops, smart TVs, tablets, and video games consuming our eye attention.
Our eyes are one of the most precious parts of the body and we should do all we can to protect them but that is so hard living in a digital world.
Digital Eyestrain
Digital eyestrain is the temporary discomfort that follows from two or more hours of digital device use.
Symptoms of this are headaches, eye pain, redness, watering, neck and shoulder pain, double vision and loss of focus are all associated with digital eyestrain. One thing does not cause the eyes to be strained. The way devices such as tablets, laptops, and phone are used is a key factor Other things like how they are made and how often they are viewed determines how strenuous the eyes work as well.
According to the American Optometric Association, up to 75% of workers that use computers have vision and eye problems. Having an eyestrain is becoming more and more common in people today due to the increase in electronics. Many Americans average 6 to 9 hours a day in front of digital devices.
Ways to Cut Down on Eyestrain Risk
Blink frequently. Being focused on a screen decreases the number of times you blink. Try to make an effort in blinking every 10 to 15 seconds. Blinking helps coat the cornea giving the eyes nutrients and oxygen it needs.
Take breaks. Take at least two 15 minute breaks an hour to give the muscles in the eyes a chance to relax. Looking away from the screen and onto something else will do a great deal of help for vision.
Get computer glasses. These glasses have a focal point in them that help reduce the effort in focusing on the screen. The more effort used in looking the harder the eyes’ muscles work.
Monitor brightness. Keeping the monitor bright will decrease the amount of fatigue produced and the flicker rate of the computer. It makes the pupils constrict increasing the focus you have with having to strain to create better focus in the eyes.
Blue light at night. Decrease the amount of time you use computers at night. Harvard has concluded that blue light hinders melatonin levels which affect your sleep and wake cycle. Blue light can also increase the risk for cancer, obesity and diabetes. If you normally do work at night make sure you have a pair of the computer glasses for your eyes.
Computer position. Having the screen too close or too far contributes to the eyes being strained. A good position is between 20 to 28 inches from the eyes. Also make sure there is no glare or the screen is damaged. Anything extra on the screen is more obstacle for the eyes to see through.
Keep the lights on. When looking at devices at night or in a more dim place, try to add light. Not having the light on increases the straining of your eyes.
Vitamins and minerals. Taking and eating the proper amount of nutrients required by the eyes is one of the most important factors. Vitamins and minerals such as A, C, E with B complex and zinc are key.
