What is Digital Eye Strain and How to Prevent It?
Scrolling through endless social media feeds, catching up on work emails, and watching the latest show, our lives are directly connected to digital screens. While these technologies offer endless possibilities, they also bring an unpleasant effect called digital eye strain.
But what is this digital eye strain, what are its symptoms, and are there any effective ways to prevent it? Let’s understand.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
First of all, you need to understand it is not an eye disease; it is a group of eye or vision problems that occurs due to prolonged use of digital devices like computers, laptops, mobile or tablets. After the pandemic, screen time has increased, which increases the risk of digital eye strain.
Several factors can result in digital eye strain. These include:
- Screen glare
- Improper lighting
- Poor posture while using the computer
- Uncorrected vision problem
- Incorrect distance of the computer
- Reduced blinking
All these problems can result in the following eye strain symptoms:
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Headache
- Itching in eyes
- Eye redness
- Eye tearing
- Eye fatigue
- Neck or back pain
- Eye discomfort
- Watering
Preventing Digital Eye Strain
Here are a few steps that you can take to prevent digital eye strain:
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: To alleviate eye strain, the 20-20-20 rule is one of the most effective ways. According to this rule, every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps reduce eye fatigue and strain.
Optimize Lighting: Maintain a well-lit workstation with indirect lighting to reduce glare and reflections on the screen. Set the screen brightness to a level that is comfortable for your eyes. Also, use blue light filters on your devices or wear blue light-blocking glasses to reduce exposure to harmful blue light and prevent digital eye strain.
Take Frequent Breaks: After every one or two hours, take a short break. Don’t just look away from your screen; get up, move around, take a short walk, stretch your arms and legs, or do simple eye exercises to relax your eyes.
Blink Regularly: Every time you blink, your eyelids spread a thin layer of tears over your eyes. These tears keep your eyes moist and prevent them from drying out, a common symptom of digital eye strain. Blinking also helps to refresh your focus.
Use Prescribed Eye Drops: If you experience eye itching, dryness or redness in your eyes or any other symptoms, consult an eye specialist in Delhi and use only the prescribed eye drops.
Eat Healthy: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein definitely plays a role in reducing digital eye strain. Therefore, include omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E in your diet. Avoid processed food or juice. Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Keep the Blower Away From Your Eyes: The hot air of the blower or cold air of the air conditioner can cause dry eyes. Therefore, prevent the direct air from the blower or AC from entering your eyes. Keep this in mind while driving too.
If you are experiencing any sign of digital eye strain, don’t wait too long. Book your consultation with Dr Anisha Gupta, an eye specialist in Delhi, to prevent further vision loss.
