Digital Eye Strain (Computer Vision Syndrome)
5 simple ways to relief

As technology advances in our daily lives, the amount of time we spend on digital devices such as computers and phones increases. Viewing a digital screen is different than reading a printed page because the letters on the digital screen are not precise or sharply defined. The level of contrast of the letters to the background is also reduced, and reflection often present on a digital screen. Thus, viewing a digital screen makes our eyes work harder.

Symptoms of digital eye strain include:

• Eye fatigue and discomfort
• Dry eyes Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Red eyes
• Eye twitching
• Neck and shoulder pain

If you are noticing two or more symptoms of digital eye strain, here are 5 Simple ways to relieve digital eye strain.
 

Give your eyes a break

To reduce your risk for digital eye strain, take frequent screen breaks, at least one 3-minute break every hour. During these breaks, stand up, move around and stretch your arms, back, neck and shoulders to reduce tension.
 

Exercise your eyes

Look away from your devices every 20 minutes and gaze at a distant object that is about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Do this exercise for 5 times. This exercise relaxes your eye muscles by reducing tension built up during prolonged computer use.
 

Consider computer glasses

For the greatest comfort on computer or phone, you might benefit from wearing modified computer prescription glasses. Your eye doctor can help you decide if computer eyeglasses are right for you depending on your work environment and your visual needs.
 

Blue light blocking glasses

Because blue light scatters more easily than other visible lights, it's not as easily focused and thus make your eyes strain to concentrate. Blue light blocking glasses help increase contrast on your digital screen, making it easier to focus and subsequently reduce eye strain.
 

Get a comprehensive Eye Exam 

An annual comprehensive eye exam is very important to prevent or treat digital eye strain. During your exam, be sure to tell your eye doctor how often you use a computer and digital devices at work and at home.