Do you spend a lot of time in front of digital screens? If so, then it’s important to be aware of digital eye strain and how to prevent it. March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, and there’s no better time to learn about digital eye strain, its symptoms, its causes, and how to find relief.
What is digital eye strain?
Digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome) is a condition caused by the prolonged use of digital devices like computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It occurs when your eyes become tired from staring at a bright screen for too long without breaks or adequate lighting. The most common symptoms include:
- Dry eyes
- Eye irritation (itchy, red eyes)
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Headaches
- Neck/shoulder pain
Common causes of digital eye strain
The primary cause of digital eye strain is prolonged exposure to blue light emitted from screens. Over time, exposure to this type of light can strain and weaken your eyes. Other common causes include improper viewing distances or angles that force your eyes to constantly adjust their focus, glare from computers or other device screens, and insufficient lighting in your work environment.
Preventing digital eye strain
There are several ways you can reduce your risk for digital eye strain. Start by making sure you have proper lighting in the room where you work. If possible, avoid using overhead lights as they tend to produce glare that can worsen symptoms.
Additionally, make sure the brightness level on your device is set at an appropriate level (not too bright). You should also take frequent breaks—look away from the screen every 20 minutes and focus on an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Finally, consider investing in blue-light-blocking glasses that filter out harmful blue light before it reaches your eyes!
Why regular eye exams are important
Regular eye exams are an important part of maintaining good overall health—especially if you use digital devices for extended periods each day! During these examinations, an optometrist will assess not only your vision but also your overall eye health. They may suggest certain lifestyle changes, such as taking more breaks when using devices, or prescribe corrective lenses if uncorrected vision problems are causing your symptoms.
By following these simple tips and seeing an optometrist regularly, we can ensure our eyes stay healthy! If you’re suffering from digital eye strain, contact us today to schedule an eye exam at our office in Murfreesboro, TN.