Tips for giving your eyes a break
Eye health has faced a growing challenge in recent years as a result of increased screen time from computer monitors, cell phones, big screen TVs and tablets. A local optometrist offers strategies for reducing eye strain and avoiding possible complications.
Increasing distance from the screen, lowering brightness settings and limiting unnecessary usage can all help keep your eyes less stressed, said Christopher M. Wright, doctor of optometry and owner of Valley Vision Care Center located on Eighth Street in El Centro.
People of all ages are now suffering from eye strain problems due to the excessive use of digital screens.
“Computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain is now common at all ages. Anyone who engages in prolonged use of a digital device (computer, tablet, smartphone, e-reader) is subject to blurred vision, eye strain, headache and even dry eye from multiple causes,” Wright said.
The distance from which you view any electronic device has an impact on your eye sight.
The closer a device is to your eyes the more likely you are to cross your eyes to keep them on a screen, Wright said. Increasing distance from your device can help reduce that tendency and subsequent eye strain.
Another way you can reduce frequent focusing problems or eye strain is to simply turn away.
Wright said he has noticed an increase in younger age groups needing to visit his office because of eye strain problems.
“Studies have shown that dry eye is a problem when using electronic devices,” he said.
The results have shown the normal blinking rate decreases when using electronic devices. When you stare at your screen for too long it causes a disruption in tear film; an outer layer beyond our cornea that serves to coat the eye and prevent dryness. Wright recommends frequent breaks and continuous blinking to help prevent dry eye and its effects. For those who still may need more help, artificial tears are recommended.
When using electronic devices, you should make sure there is no glare present. With an increase in glare, there is an increase in eye strain.
Another factor to keep in mind is screen brightness, Wright said.
Decreasing the brightness of your device can provide some relief. The type of light coming from your device can be an issue, too, Wright said. Technology is constantly modernizing, and the type of light used by a smart device can have different effects on your eyes. Blue, or high-intensity, light emitted from our digital screens has been linked to some health issues, he said.
One of the most serious of these is macular degeneration, a condition that causes vision loss.
“Night-mode” settings and apps can help reduce blue light exposure and its inherent risks. “Natural blue light is part of our everyday normal life,” Wright said.
“Staring at a bright computer screen is not.”