Digital Eye Strain: Causes and Prevention

Whether it’s for school, work or personal use, computers, tablets and smartphones are significant to our daily lives. And if you spend several hours a day in front of screens, you are likely prone to or have already suffered from digital eye strain – which typically comes with symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, dry eye and more.

Here are some of the most common causes of digital eye strain and ways you can prevent it.

• Poor sleep: Sleep allows your body – including your eyes – to recover, and it promotes the repair of your cells and tissues. Make sure to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep, so your eyes can rest too. You should also follow the 20-20-20 rule to give your eyes a break throughout the day. This means you should look up from your computer every 20 minutes and focus your eyes on something that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Texting: Letters on a computer or phone screen are just not as precise or sharply defined as printed text. Furthermore, the contrast of the letters to the background is typically reduced on digital screens, making it a struggle to read. In this case, you can raise the contrast on your screen so that you can see more clearly.
• Glare: Glare or reflections can also make it difficult to view digital screens. To ensure your comfort, make sure to place your screen away from direct sunlight or other light sources. It may also help to invest in anti-glare screens.
• Distance: Sitting too close to your computer can cause digital eye strain. Remember that the top of the screen should just be below eye level. The screen should also be 20 to 28 inches away from your face. If you’re having difficulty reading from that distance, do not bring your face closer to the screen. Instead, increase the print size so you don’t have to strain your eyes.

If you notice anything different in your eyesight, a visit to your trusted eye doctor at Vienna Eyecare Center is in order. Call us at (703) 938-7633, or fill out our contact form to schedule your consultation.