Digital devices such as mobile, tablets, and computers are an integral part of our lives. Be it for work, school, or play, we have learned to rely on digital tools. But long periods of screen exposure can have big consequences for our eyes. Digital screens affect our eyes, and you have to take certain proactive steps to protect them. Northridge eye doctor helps diagnose and treat any eye issues and helps you take proactive steps in order to maintain good eye health.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
From the prolonged use of digital screens such as mobile, computer screens, or tabs, the eyes can experience computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain. Symptoms include dryness, blurred vision, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain. All these happen because our eyes focus on screens for long periods without taking breaks. Regular eye consulting with a Northridge eye doctor will help identify and treat any eye health issues and anything related to computer eye syndrome.
Effects of Blue Light
Blue light is high-energy visible light that's emitted by digital devices. It causes eye fatigue. Blue light might also affect sleep cycles because excess exposure to it has been suggested for long-term eye problems. Blue light blocking glasses or manipulating the screen display can minimize exposure.
Proactive Steps To Take To Ensure Good Eye Health When Using Too Much Screen
Importance of the 20-20-20 Rule
The easiest way to reduce eye strain is the 20-20-20 rule: Look at something that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This is a proactive step of small change that can really help relax eye muscles and decrease fatigue and irritation.
Optimize Screen Settings
Adjusting the brightness of your screen, contrast levels, and text size does make a difference. As long as your screen isn't any dimmer than your surroundings, you can maximize the text size. Anti-glare screen protectors are also helpful in reducing the glare on your screen if you position it far enough from direct light sources so that it doesn't catch them.
Maintain a Healthy Distance
Additionally, a safe distance from the screen would prevent eye strain. This is achieved by setting up your screen to be about arm's length and a little below the level at which you sit or work. This is such that your eyes have to angle down a little to see; this reduces dry eye incidence.
Blink Frequently and Keep Hydrated
You tend to reduce the rate at which you blink when staring at a screen for an extended period. This leads to your eyes drying up. Make sure to blink often so that your eyes remain moist. Hydration also helps maintain the lubrication of your eyes, and therefore, you experience less dryness and irritation.
If There's Irritation, Use Eyedrops
If dryness persists, consider using lubricating eye drops. They keep eyes moist and reduce irritation, particularly after long hours of working on your computer.
Take Breaks Off the Screen End
In addition to your 20-20-20, try to take an hour-long extended break from your screen regularly. That is the time you move around and let your eyes rest, taking some strain off of the body.
Annual Eye Exam
Scheduling regular eye exams is in order, especially if you're a frequent user of digital devices. An eye doctor will diagnose early signs of strain and other conditions and will suggest corrective measures such as prescription glasses tailored for screen use.
Conclusion
In our increasingly digital world, it is crucial to start caring for your eye health to avoid the later effects of digital eye strain. Introducing small good habits such as the 20-20-20, adjusting the screen settings appropriately, and drinking enough liquids can reduce misery and protect your vision even more. Regular eye tests are also important to assess any potential issues early. Protecting your eyes nowadays will ensure that they end up healthy and resilient over time, even with frequent screen time.
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