Looking at a computer screen all day long can strain your neck and shoulders, and of course this habit is very hard on your eyes. Computer screens can injure your eyes to adjust the light to decrease over time.
According to VSP network ophthalmologist Jennifer Tsai when light from a digital screen enters your eye, it must adjust and process that light in order to land properly on our retina - an important part of the eye that enables vision.
“This allows you to see the images clearly. However, when you spend too much time in front of a digital screen, your eyes have to work harder to refocus the light. After a long period of time, your eye muscles may feel tired from overwork, a term known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome, "he said, as quoted by the Well and Good website.
The impact of digital eye strain is extensive. "This can cause eye fatigue, dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, difficulty reading, difficulty concentrating, light sensitivity, and neck and back pain," says Dr. Tsai.
To avoid eye strain, you need to have adequate screen rest during the day. "Many of us don't even realize that we often stare at our cell phones when we take a break from the computer," he said. To do this, follow the 20-20-20 rule. "Every 20 minutes, remind yourself - and your children - to look away from the screen and look at something that is at least 20 feet or about 6 meters away for at least 20 seconds," he said.
Try to keep a digital distance and keep the screen brightness low. “Find a comfortable working distance from your screen. Children should hold the device as far away from their eyes as it is comfortable. "Adults are encouraged to hold the device at arm's length," said Dr. Tsai. "Lower the device screen brightness level to reduce the amount of blue light exposure, especially during the night hours."
Also, you might consider purchasing special blue light-blocking glasses. "Your eyes can be sensitive to harsh lighting environments, including excessive blue light from digital screens," said Dr. Tsai.
The best thing you can do, he says, is to consult an eye doctor to develop an eye health plan that works for you.
"Even if you don't currently wear special glasses, an annual visit to your local ophthalmologist is very important for everyone," says Dr. Tsai. “Not only can your doctor help you determine the best option for reducing digital eye strain, they will also make sure your eyes are healthy and working properly. They can also help detect early signs of serious illnesses such as diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disease, autoimmune disorders, and hypertension. "
