How much of your day is spent on your laptop, tablet, or smartphone? Between working, catching up on world events or the latest in entertainment, corresponding with colleagues and friends and your favorite TV shows and sports, the time spent can definitely add up. According to a survey conducted by The Vision Council, more than sixty-six percent of us spend more than six hours a day starting at our digital devices. Fourteen percent spend a staggering ten to twelve hours per day.
The Dark Side
Technology has indeed made our lives easier and made many things more convenient. However, there are side effects that should be addressed and contemplated upon. Some of these side effects include difficulty focusing, dry eyes, and even double vision.
Digital eye strain is perhaps the most common problem associated with extended viewing of digital devices. Because we view these devices at close range our eyes have to constantly refocus, adjust and sometimes strain to view or read content on these rather small devices. This can then lead to irritation, fatigue and other vision problems. In fact, according to The Vision Council, digital eye strain is the most common computer-related problem surpassing carpal tunnel and tendonitis.
The Signs and Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
Some symptoms to be familiar with are:
- Headaches
- Tired eyes
- Neck or back pain
- Burning or stinging eyes
- Difficulty focusing after extended periods of time
If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to take a break from the screen and possibly see your eye doctor.
The Good News
The good news is that there are things you can do to help your eyes and avoid health risks associated with screen usage. One of the easiest is to take a break. Even a five to ten-minute break every hour can help refresh your eyes. While on your break, focusing on a distant object can further help relax your eyes. Another easy way to reduce the stress on your eyes if you’re having to be in front of a computer or phone for many hours is to make sure the screen is bright and in a well-lit room. Also, keep your computer or tablet at a good distance of about 20-28 inches and without any glare.
Taking the proper vitamins can also help your eye health. Your eyes have one of the highest energy requirements; therefore it’s important they get the proper vitamins and minerals. Doctors recommend key antioxidants that will help improve your eyes’ health and reduce eye strain and they include vitamins A, C, and E with a B complex and zinc.
Our phones and tablets have been a staple in our lives and overall made them easier, but take a few moments out of the day and look away and give your eyes a break. For more information on digital eye stress and remedies check out the article at the link below, that is after you give your eyes a quick break.
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About the Author
Amjad Khokar, M.D. is Chief LASIK Surgeon at Houston LASIK & Eye. Add Dr. Khokhar on Google+ here.
Source:
https://www.thevisioncouncil.org/consumers//media/VCDigitalEyeStrainReport2012FINAL.pdf
