5 Tips to Prevent Digital Eye Strain

Blue light is a type of high-energy visible radiation composed of short wavelengths and increased energy frequencies. Common sources of blue light are electronic devices like your computer, smart phone, and TV. Looking at your gadgets for long periods of time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Read on for five tips to prevent digital eye strain.

To reduce your risk of developing this eye problem, Vienna Eyecare Center discusses five ways to protect your eyes.

1. Maintain Proper Posture

According to our expert eye doctor in Fairfax, VA, slouching can add undue stress and pressure on your eyes. We advise adjusting your chair so you are sitting at eye-level with your television or computer screen. We also suggest investing in furniture that makes you feel most comfortable when sitting for long periods of time.

2. Modify Your Monitor Settings

Highly lit screens emit more blue light radiation that can overwhelm your eyes. We suggest adjusting the color, temperature, contrast, or brightness settings on your device to a level similar to your surroundings. We also recommend using anti-glare screens for enhanced visual protection.

3. Keep Your Eyes Well Rested

If your job requires you to spend long periods of time in front of a computer, you can still prevent digital eye strain by following the “20-20-20” rule. After every 20 minutes of work, we advise looking at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Our reliable optometrists in Fairfax, VA, also encourages blinking at regular intervals to prevent dry eyes.

4. Have Regular Eye Exams

The most reliable way to maintain your visual health and comfort is to visit your eye doctor for regular checkups. As we ask about your personal history, we can identify risk factors of this eye condition. We may also perform various tests and procedures to check for any signs of blue light-induced ocular changes. If you are experiencing digital eye strain, we can provide effective treatment.

5. Consider Using Computer Eyewear

As experts in eye care in Fairfax, VA, we understand that using digital devices is already a part of your daily life. Whether at work, at home, or on the road, prolonged exposure to gadgets may be inevitable. One way to combat the negative effects of prolonged exposure to digital devices is by wearing specialty computer glasses, which are specifically designed to protect your eyes from the computer’s glare and other high-energy visible light.

For more tips on reducing the risk of developing digital eye strain, call us at (703) 938-7633, or complete our form to request an appointment.