We’re surrounded by screens every day. Whether it’s the phones in our pockets or the computer at work, we spend a significant amount of time each day staring at a bright light. With our devices becoming a bigger part of our daily lives, it’s important to know how screen time can affect our eyes and how to prevent digital eye strain. Knowing what to watch for and how to take care of your eyes when working around screens is the first step in preventing discomfort and potential damage to your eyes.
How to recognize digital eye strain
The most common symptoms of eye strain are:
- Blurred vision
- Discomfort in the eye
- Redness, itching, or dry eyes
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
How to prevent digital eye strain
Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to protect your eyes from overexposure to screens:
- Rest your eyes for 15 minutes for every two hours spent looking at a screen.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes you spend looking at a screen, look at an object at least 20 feet away, and focus on it for 20 seconds.
- Use a glare filter on your screen and try to reduce glare from exterior light sources.
- Place the screen at arm’s length and about three to five inches below your eye level so you aren’t looking up or down.
- Practice good posture. Try not to slouch when using the computer for long lengths of time. Consider an ergonomic chair, desk, and accessories to promote a comfortable and healthy posture.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, contact us by phone (319-362-3937) or by online form to schedule a comprehensive exam.
