How to Protect Your Eyes From Digital Eyestrain

Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eyestrain, is a common problem caused by the prolonged use of electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. The symptoms of digital eyestrain can include headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. Read on to learn ways to protect your eyes from digital eyestrain.

Take Frequent Breaks 

One of the best methods to prevent computer vision syndrome is to take frequent breaks when using electronic devices. The 20-20-20 rule is a good starting point. It encourages you to take a 20-second break after 20 minutes to stare at an object 20 feet away. Doing so allows your eyes to rest and relax, reducing the risk of eyestrain. 

Take a short walk or do simple exercises during your breaks to help increase blood flow to the eyes and reduce muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. When you are back on your screen, you will find that your focus and productivity will improve.

Adjust Your Monitor

Another way to protect your eyes from digital eyestrain is to adjust your monitor to the proper position and settings. The monitor's top ought to be at or just below eye level, and the screen should be about an arm's length away. The text should also be large enough to read comfortably without straining your eyes. 

You can achieve this by adjusting the monitor's height, distance, and angle. Adjusting the monitor's brightness and contrast can also help reduce eyestrain. It is also vital to keep your monitor clean. Dust and smudges on the screen can cause glare and reflections, making it harder to see.

Use Good Lighting

Good lighting is vital in preventing digital eyestrain. Avoid using electronic devices in dim or poorly lit rooms. Instead, choose a well-lit room or use a task light to illuminate your work area. Additionally, avoid glare by positioning your device or monitor away from windows or other light sources. The ideal lighting can make a big difference in reducing eyestrain. It is crucial to have balanced lighting—not too bright or too dim. 

Blink Often 

Blinking helps keep your eyes lubricated and prevents dryness. When focused on a screen, you tend to blink less, which can lead to dry eyes. Be mindful of your blinking and try to blink more often when using electronic devices. Additionally, you tend to blink less when you are staring at a screen. Doing so can lead to dry eyes and can cause eyestrain. To help, try to blink more often. 

Wear Computer Glasses 

Computer glasses, also known as blue light spectacles, can help lessen the amount of blue light entering your eyes. Blue light can cause digital eyestrain. Hence, you can reduce your risk of eyestrain by wearing glasses that filter out blue light. 

Computer glasses have a special coating that blocks or filters out blue light. It helps reduce the glare from the screen and the amount of blue light that reaches your eyes, reducing eyestrain and helping improve sleep quality. Computer glasses can also help relieve headaches and migraines, common symptoms of digital eyestrain.

Use the Right Contact Lenses 

If you wear contact lenses, choose the right type for use with electronic devices. Some contact lenses are for extended periods, while others are for shorter periods. Consult your eye doctor to determine the best contact lens option for you.

The wrong type can cause dry eyes and discomfort. Additionally, follow the recommended wearing schedule and take proper care of your contact lenses to reduce the risk of eye infections and irritation.

For more about eye protection against digital eyestrain, visit Paradise Canyon Eye Care at our office in St. George, Utah. Call (435) 334-2331 to book an appointment today.

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