Protect Yourself from Digital Eye Strain

Today, there is virtually no reprieve from digital screens. Even when we call in sick, many of us have the capacity to work from home and can’t resist the urge to occasionally check our emails. Even so, we may be laid out on the couch, watching some Netflix, while scrolling through our smartphone that is 2 inches from our face!

Digital eye strain is a real thing and can bring with it real consequences. We’ve seen plenty of clients come in with complications of too much screen time. With that said, we thought we’d give you some tips on how to protect yourself from digital eye strain.

Take Regular Breaks

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps relax your eye muscles and reduce eye strain caused by prolonged screen time.

Adjust Screen Settings

Optimize your device’s screen settings to reduce eye strain. Adjust the brightness to match the lighting conditions of your surroundings and ensure that the text size and contrast are comfortable for your eyes.

Maintain Proper Distance and Positioning

Position your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye level. This setup encourages a more natural and relaxed position for your neck, back, and eyes, reducing the strain caused by prolonged forward head posture.

Minimize Glare

Glare from windows or bright overhead lighting can contribute to eye strain. Position your computer screen to minimize glare or use an anti-glare screen protector. Consider adjusting the lighting in your workspace to reduce harsh reflections.

Blink Frequently

When staring at a screen, people tend to blink less, leading to dry and irritated eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated. Consider using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness if needed.

Maintain Proper Eye Care Habits

Practicing good overall eye care habits can contribute to reducing digital eye strain. Ensure you have regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and address any underlying issues. Follow your eye care professional’s recommendations for corrective lenses or treatments if necessary.

Create a Vision-Friendly Environment

Make your workspace more eye-friendly by ensuring adequate lighting that is not too bright or too dim. Reduce overhead lighting glare and use task lighting to illuminate specific work areas. Consider using a desk lamp with adjustable brightness and direction.

Are you concerned that you may be suffering from digital eye strain? It’s a serious condition, and we recommend you reach out to us to schedule an appointment.