Are you struggling with your vision and do not know what causes it? You may be suffering from the effects of digital eyestrain. The modern world is so filled with digital screens everywhere, from work to the home, that it is almost impossible to avoid looking at a digital screen for a whole day. 

Did you know that, according to a study, three out of four American adults report symptoms of digital eyestrain? Limited time looking at digital screens may not harm you, but it is harder on your eyes than looking at a book. Digital eyestrain usually occurs when you spend much time staring at a screen close to your face. It can result from computer screens, cellphones, tablets, and iPads.

Here are some FAQs about digital eyestrain that may guide you in managing it.

What Causes Digital Eyestrain?

This condition results from several factors linked to the use of digital devices. Some of these factors are the time spent in front of a device, the working distance between your eyes and the device, the number of times you use the device, screen glare, and reduced contrast between background and digital text. 

Another factor determining whether you get digital eyestrain is the amount of light in the working environment.

What Are the Symptoms of Digital Eyestrain?

Most people can feel the effect of staring at the computer for a long time, while others have become accustomed to it. If you sit at the computer for long or use any digital device for prolonged periods, you will experience:

• Eye fatigue.
• Burning, itching, dry or watery eyes.
• Back, neck, or shoulder pain.
• Double or blurry vision.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Headache.

How Long Do I Have to Spend on a Digital Device to Develop Digital Eyestrain?

Your blink rate will reduce if you spend more than two hours daily on a digital device. Blinking helps the eye stay lubricated and keeps dirt out of the eye. One of the symptoms linked to digital eyestrain is dry eye, and a low blink rate can cause it. Typically, you blink at least 15 times per minute, but when you use digital devices for two hours or more, this reduces by 60 percent.

What Helps Alleviate Digital Eyestrain?

One of the most effective ways to reduce the effects of digital eyestrain is to reduce your screen time. You may also try changing your computer area occasionally. Here are some strategies that doctors recommend to deal with digital eyestrain.

20-20-20 Rule

You can implement this simple rule at work to minimize digital eyestrain. After 20 minutes on your computer, look away at an object 20 feet away for about 20 seconds. It allows your eyes to relax after focusing on the screen.

Blink More Often

Try to remember to blink more often when using a digital device. It will help keep the eyes lubricated.

Reduce Glare and Adjust Lighting

It is harder for your eyes to use a computer screen when there is a lot of glare and reflection. It can become worse if there are bright lights around you. You can switch to a desk lamp and close the blinds to reduce sunlight. You may also get an anti-glare filter.

For more on eyestrain, visit Today’s Vision at our office in Laguna Niguel, California. Call (949) 518-0055 to book an appointment today.