Digital screens have become a significant part of life. From your computer screens at work to the handheld devices you use for entertainment and communication, it's clear they're here to stay. But what impact do they have on your vision, specifically, on myopia?

The Impact of Digital Screens on Vision

The first step in understanding the impact of digital screens on your vision is recognizing what happens in your eyes during screen time. When you're looking at a screen, particularly for extended periods, you're subjecting your eyes to high-energy visible (HEV) light, commonly known as blue light. Although blue light is naturally present in sunlight, the concentrated exposure from digital screens can strain your eyes. HEV light can lead to digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome, which presents symptoms like dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision.

How Screen Time Affects Myopia

Prolonged exposure to digital screens can change how your eyes process light and focus, which can gradually lead to myopia. This is particularly concerning for children, whose eyes are still developing. Although the link between digital screens and myopia is not definitively proven, the correlation is strong enough to warrant concern.

Techniques to Prevent Myopia from Excessive Screen Time

Firstly, take frequent breaks from digital screens: every 20 minutes spent using a screen, you should try to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This exercise can reduce strain on your eyes.

Next, adjust the lighting and contrast on your screens to reduce glare, which can cause eye strain. You can also consider using blue light filters or glasses to limit your exposure to HEV light.

Encouraging outdoor activities can also help. Sunlight exposure has been shown to be beneficial for eye health, and outdoor activities often require focusing on different distances, exercising your eyes.

Regular eye exams are crucial in early detection and prevention of myopia. Make sure to discuss your screen time habits with your optometrist, so they can provide personalized advice.

Conclusion

While there is a potential link between digital screens and myopia, it doesn't mean you need to eliminate screen time completely. What's important is to adapt your habits and environment to enhance your vision health. 

To learn more on the impact of digital screens on myopia, visit Today’s Vision at our office in Laguna Niguel, California. Call (949) 518-0055 to schedule an appointment.