Computer Eyestrain
With so many of us using computers and digital devices, digital eye strain has become a major complaint. Studies show that eye strain and other bothersome visual symptoms occur in 50 to 90 percent of digital device users.
These problems can range from physical fatigue, blurry vision, dry eyes, decreased productivity and increased numbers of work errors, to minor annoyances like eye twitching and red eyes.
Here are some easy steps you can take to reduce your risk of digital eye strain and other common symptoms of digital eye strain:
Take "Eye" Breaks
A major cause of digital eye strain is focusing fatigue. Reduce your risk of tiring your eyes by looking away from your screen at least every 20 minutes and gaze at a distant object (at least 20 feet away) for at least 20 seconds. This is called the "20-20-20 rule." Looking far away relaxes the focusing muscle inside the eye to reduce fatigue.
Blink More Often
Blinking is very important when working at a computer; blinking moistens your eyes to prevent dryness and irritation. When working at a computer, people blink less frequently - about one-third as often as they normally do, this can cause dry eyes.
To reduce your risk of dry eyes during computer use, try this exercise: Every 20 minutes, blink 10 times by closing your eyes as if falling asleep (very slowly). This will help rewet your eyes. If you continue to experience dry eye symptoms, ask us about specific artificial tears for use during the day.
Reduce Glare and Blue Light
Glare from surroundings, including walls and the reflection from of the screen, can foster digital eye strain. Emerging research indicates that blue light emitted from screens, or even the fluorescent or LED lighting in an office, can have both short-term and long-term effects on the eye. To reduce glare, try an anti-reflective and/or blue light reducing coating on your glasses lenses or anti-glare protective screens for monitors. Also try adjusting the lighting in the work space, using desk lamps or other portable lighting to decrease glare.
Computer Eyewear and Advances in Lens Technology
Just like people need different pairs of shoes for different occasions, there is also a need for different, specialized lenses to cater to varied vision needs. Computer eyewear is specially designed for optimizing vision when viewing content on screens. This eyewear can utilize different filters, lenses and materials tailored to lifestyle needs. Users experience more relaxation, sharper focus and reduced blurriness and pixilation, which can cause discomfort unless corrected. The lens designs allow adults and children's eyes to relax, adjusting to intermediate-distance objects and reducing glare during prolonged use of digital devices.
We Are Here To Help
Digital devices are here to stay, yet it is still unknown how all the exposure will impact eyes in the long term. However, even temporary issues such as digital eye strain are taking a toll on technology users, which can have real effects on productivity while causing unnecessary discomfort. If you are experiencing any digital eye strain let us know so we can work together to relieve your symptoms and get you clear, comfortable vision.
In Health,
Dr. Jane