Digital screens are a daily part of our lives now more than ever. Many of us spend hours a day looking at screens for work, learning, and play. The increased amount of time we spend looking at screens may be leading to certain eye issues, studies say. These eye problems caused by too much screen time are often classified as “computer vision syndrome.” Keep reading to find out the different screen-related eye problems and what you can do about them.
Eyestrain
When you concentrate on anything for a long period of time, you can develop eyestrain. You can identify eyestrain by symptoms of headache, especially in the eyes and temple areas. Focusing on a digital screen can amplify this effect due to the differences in lighting. Eyestrain is very common in those who work at a computer all day or use a screen in rooms with low lighting. This is why it is important to take breaks from screens during your day and always observe screens in the proper lighting.
Dry Eyes
Another eye problem that you may notice from increased screen time is dry eyes. Like eyestrain, dry eyes can occur after long periods of screen time. This is especially true for those who already experience dry eye symptoms daily, as digital devices can worsen the symptoms of dry eyes. These symptoms include tired, red, itchy, or watery eyes. You may even experience blurred or double vision, in which case you should take a break from your screen immediately.
Retinal Damage
Recent studies into screen time and resulting eye problems have found that excessive screen time can even result in long-term eye problems. In children whose eyesight is still developing, too much electronics usage can result in nearsightedness and underdeveloped vision. The blue light that electronics produce can also be damaging to our eyesight over long periods of time and may even result in retinal damage.
Combating Screen Time-Related Eye Issues
Now that you understand the potential problems associated with electronics usage, you may be wondering how you can prevent them. If you work or learn on a computer or other device for many hours a day, try investing in a pair of blue-light-filtering glasses. These glasses help filter and block blue light produced by screens, which can help minimize dry eye and eyestrain. Moderation is also key when it comes to using electronics. If you must work in front of a screen all day, try to minimize your screen time at home. And always power down your electronics at least 30 minutes before going to bed to avoid sleeplessness from blue light. You can also consult any type of eye doctor for further recommendations.
These are some examples of eye problems caused by too much screen time and how you can negate their symptoms as much as possible. We should always be conscious of how much time we spend on electronics and where we can cut back on screen time to improve these symptoms.
