Most people who work in office settings spend more than seven hours per day in front of a computer. This extended amount of screen time can cause digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, which is characterized by redness, dry eyes, neck and shoulder pain, headaches and dizziness.
In the second part of our Workplace Eye Wellness Month blog post, your leading eye care provider, I See Vision Care shares ways you can get relief from digital eye strain.
Effects of Too Much Screen Time
Digital eye strain occurs when your eyes follow a repetitive movement. While looking at a computer screen, your eyes have to constantly refocus, which can cause fatigue to the muscles in your eyes. Patients with existing vision problems or who don’t wear their prescription glasses often enough are more susceptible to this condition.
Get Relief From Digital Eye Strain
Back and forth eye movements can cause eye strain and anxiety. To minimize or eliminate symptoms, take frequent breaks from your computer. Practice the 20-20-20 rule: after 20 minutes of screen time, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
When you are in front of the monitor, you tend to blink less, making the eyes dry. Try to blink more to maintain moisture in your eyes.
In addition, you can place a glare filter on your monitor to reduce glare. If you’re seated near the window, close the blinds or shades. Adjust your computer screen’s brightness, contrast and font size to a setting that’s comfortable for you. Make sure that the lighting is even in your work station.
Prevent double vision caused by digital eye strain through sitting at a comfortable distance from your computer. The monitor should be 20 to 28 inches from the eyes.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should visit your eye doctor for tests. At I See Vision Care, we are your local neurovisual specialists. Call us at (561) 733-90 08-5115 or complete our online contact form.
Dr. Erin Sonneberg
Dr. Erin Sonneberg, OD, received her Doctor of Optometry degree from New England School of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts in 2004. She completed her undergraduate studies at City University of New York, Queens College in 2000, where she graduated with honors in business. Dr. Sonneberg relocated to Boynton Beach, Florida, in 2006, and has been practicing alongside prestigious ophthalmologists in the area since that time.
