Posted by: Caster Eye Center in eye health

Caster Eye Center

Screens are everywhere today; they are so common that you will have a hard time walking into a room without seeing at least one. Between phones, computers, tablets, and televisions, the average American adult spends at least seven hours a day looking at screens, and children aren’t far behind. Laser eye surgeons are increasingly concerned about eye health, as they see more patients with vision complications related to heavy screen use. Many of these issues progress slowly and quietly, without obvious warning signs, until damage has already occurred. It is easy to forget that your eyes aren’t designed to stare at bright, artificial light for hours at a time. But when you do, they pay the price. Thankfully, most screen-related vision problems can be improved with small modifications to your daily habits. 

Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer vision syndrome is a generic term for the complications you may experience from using digital devices for extended periods without breaks. When you spend hours of your day staring at a screen, your eyes may become irritated, blurry, or give you headaches. Nighttime use of electronic devices has been shown to disrupt your sleep. This is not a serious medical concern, but if symptoms become severe enough, they can affect your daily life. 

Symptoms and Causes

The most reported symptoms related to vision and screen time include:

  • Eye irritation
  • Blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Eye strain
  • Stiff neck, shoulders, and back

CVS is caused by too much screen time. Your eyes strain from everyday activities, but this is exacerbated when you add digital screens to the mix. The print you see on your computer screen is composed of many pixels, which causes your eyes to constantly refocus. The high level of activity can cause eye strain. Blinking moistens your eyes, and when you look at a screen, evidence shows you blink approximately one-third less often than usual. Lower blinking rates indicate reduced moisture in your eyes, which can cause computer vision syndrome. 

What Can You Do? 

The most straightforward thing you can do about the effects of screen time on your vision is to manage dry eyes and correct any vision issues that are present. Make a conscious effort to blink more often to encourage tear production and keep your eyes moisturized. Talk to an eye care specialist about correcting any vision issues. Reducing the number of hours of screen time a day is a good place to start, but changing your workspace and the way you use your computer can help when screen use is unavoidable. 

Looking down at your screen is most comfortable when your display is 4 to 5 inches below eye level. Reflections on your screen from windows or lamps can strain your eyes. Close curtains, lower blinds, and avoid bright overhead light. Set up your workspace to reduce your risk of back and neck discomfort. Taking more frequent breaks from your screen and adjusting your contrast to 60%- 70% may be beneficial for your eyes. You can also increase text size to help reduce eye strain and fatigue. 

Eye Safety When Screens Are Unavoidable

Screens are a way of life, and avoiding them completely is unrealistic.  You can take steps to minimize damage to your eyes, which doesn’t mean a drastic reduction in screen time. Small, sustainable modifications in how you use screens can be effective interventions and don’t come with a hefty price tag or complicated instructions. 

Protect your eyes from the negative effects of screens by scheduling a consultation today.