Digital Eye Strain: 7 Ways to Protect Yourself
Digital eye strain is becoming a common eye condition among Americans. On average, 60 percent of Americans spend more than five hours on their digital devices per day. Spending more than two hours on digital devices can cause symptoms of digital eye strain such as irritated eyes, blurry vision, fatigue, neck and back pain, or headaches.
March is Save Your Vision Month, Premier Medical will join the American Optometric Association (AOA) to encourage making eye health a priority in the digital age. Take a look at the tips below to help you avoid digital eye strain.
Take frequent breaks
Most people who spend multiple hours on digital devices, rarely take breaks. The AOA recommends the 20-20-20 rule to reduce the symptoms of digital eye strain. How it works, for every 20 minutes spent looking at a device, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
There’s not an app for that
Apps on your phone or online tests can not compare to an eye exam by a physician. The best way to preserve eye health is to get regular eye exams by a board-certified ophthalmologist.
Put distance between you
Posture plays a key role in digital eye strain. Remember to position yourself at a comfortable viewing distance, the AOA recommends a viewing distance of approximately 20 to 28 inches from eye to screen.
Computer glasses
Individuals who do not use or need eyeglasses for daily activities may benefit from computer glasses. Computer glasses are prescribed to meet the strain of blue light on the eye and are only worn during computer use.
Avoid glare
Glares on digital devices can make it difficult to focus on the content you are viewing, resulting in unnecessary eye strain. Consider a glare filter, it can help reduce the amount of light being reflected onto your screen.
Blink
Yes, blinking is involuntary, but often when looking at a screen blinking can decrease. Blinking is vital to keeping the eye lubricated and maintaining clear vision. While using your computer or other digital devices, remember to blink and often.
Unplug
After spending five or more hours on a digital device, your eyes need to rest. Put down the tablet, laptop or mobile phone and enjoy an activity that doesn’t involve looking at blue light.
If you would like to learn more about digital eye strain and Save Your Vision Month, visit the AOA page.
Premier Medical understands the importance of maintaining eye health as a top priority. If you are experiencing similar symptoms of digital eye strain, make an appointment with one of Premier Medical’s eye physicians today.
