Suffering from Digital Eye Strain?

Many of us use electronic devices to read our daily newspaper, connect with family and friends through emails and social media, and watch TV as well as use a computer for work.  This means our eyes spend a lot of time each day staring into the bright lights of a digital screen, which has resulted in many people reporting eye strain.  

The American Optometric Association says our “eyes are under greater strain when we view screens versus when we read printed words on a page.”  This is because screen print is not as sharply defined as printed letters and makes our eyes work harder in addition to the strain of the glare and reflection.  In fact in a study, researchers found that people blink less on digital screens, which might account for dry eyes and irritation.  

Symptoms of computer eyes include dry, irritated, or burning eyes; blurred vision when viewing a screen or looking into the distance; and difficulty refocusing the eye.  People also report frequent headaches, neck and shoulder pain and sensitivity to light.  

To counteract the problem, the American Optometric Association recommends following the 20-20-20 rule. This means for every 20 minutes spent looking at a digital screen; you look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.  Another helpful exercise is to change your focus by holding your finger a few inches from one eye and focusing your gaze on the finger.  Now slowly move it aside and focus on something farther away.  Alternate between looking at your finger and then looking farther away three times bringing the finger closer to the face each time.  

Doctors recommend getting a full eye exam if symptoms persist as well as remembering to follow the American Optometric Association’s guidelines regarding yearly checkups.  This is important as eye strain can also be a sign of needing glasses or other underlying conditions.  

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Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/computer-eye-strain#exercises