Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common condition that affects people who spend a lot of time looking at screens, such as computers, smartphones, and TVs. In this post, we’ll discuss the symptoms of digital eye strain, describe what it is and how it develops, and provide some simple tips for protecting your eyes from digital eye strain.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common condition that affects people who spend a lot of time looking at screens. When we look at screens, we tend to blink less frequently than we normally would, which can cause the eyes to become dry and irritated. This can lead to symptoms such as eye fatigue, headache, blurred vision, and dry eyes.
Think of the eyes like a sponge. When we blink, we help to keep the eyes moist and healthy, like squeezing water out of a sponge. But when we look at screens, we blink less frequently, which can cause the eyes to become dry and uncomfortable, like a dry sponge.
How to Protect Your Eyes From Digital Eye Strain
Now that we’ve discussed the symptoms and causes of digital eye strain, let’s talk about how to protect your eyes from this condition. Here are some simple tips that can help to reduce your risk of developing digital eye strain:
- Take frequent breaks: One of the best ways to protect your eyes from digital eye strain is to take frequent breaks from screens. This can help to reduce eye fatigue and give your eyes a chance to rest and recover. Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Blink often: As we mentioned earlier, blinking helps to keep the eyes moist and healthy. When you’re looking at screens, make a conscious effort to blink often. This can help to reduce dryness and irritation, and keep your eyes feeling comfortable.
- Adjust the lighting: Bright lights, such as the sun or fluorescent lights, can cause glare and make it difficult to see screens clearly. Adjust the lighting in your work or living space to reduce glare and make it easier to see your screens.
- Adjust the screen settings: The brightness, contrast, and font size of your screens can affect how your eyes feel. Adjust the settings on your screens to make them comfortable to look at. For example, set the brightness to match the lighting in your room, and use a font size that is easy to read.
- Use lubricating eye drops: If your eyes feel dry and uncomfortable, lubricating eye drops can help to relieve the symptoms of digital eye strain. These drops can help to keep the eyes moist and comfortable, and reduce the risk of dryness and irritation.
Conclusion
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common condition that affects people who spend a lot of time looking at screens. Symptoms of digital eye strain include eye fatigue, headache, blurred vision, and dry eyes. To protect your eyes from digital eye strain, take frequent breaks, blink often, adjust the lighting and screen settings, and use lubricating eye drops. By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable, even if you spend a lot of time looking at screens.