Understanding Digital Eye Strain and How to Prevent It

Today’s technology has advanced many fields and enhanced the lives of millions around the world. However, like all things, there are both good and not so good sides to technology. One of the problems that we have to deal with now—which our ancestors didn’t—is digital eye strain. More and more often, your optometrist in Jesup, GA is seeing cases of patients who are experiencing digital eye strain. Learn more about what it is, the causes, the symptoms and how to prevent it.

What is Digital Eye Strain?

Digital eye strain is a unique kind of eye strain that comes from long hours spent staring at screens. Symptoms include red eyes, headache, blurred vision, dry eyes and more.

Causes of Digital Eye Strain

Basically, staring at screens causes digital eye strain. Staring is the right word to use, since studies have shown that people blink well over 50% fewer times per minute when using a computer. The average person normally blinks between 14 and 17 times in a minute. When using a computer, the average person blinks only 5 times a minute. That’s important, because blinking is needed to keep eyes moist.

Another leading factor is blue light. Computer screens, laptops, tablets and cell phones emit blue light. This is quite harsh on the eyes and contributes to digital eye strain, sleepless nights and more. The sleepless nights occur when a person uses a device before bed. The blue light interferes with the body’s natural circadian rhythm, and makes it harder to sleep. In a roundabout way, this can contribute to digital eye strain, too, since the eyes need their rest at night just like the rest of the body.

Preventing Eye Strain

• Consider taking steps to reduce eye strain, such as:
• Sit a minimum of 2 feet away from your computer screen.
• Lower brightness levels on tablets and cell phones.
• Light the room when using screens.
• Install a blue light filter app on your devices.
• Consciously try to blink more often.

If you find that you’re experiencing digital eye strain and it’s affecting your vision even when not using a device, come in to Vision Source for an eye exam in Jesup, GA.