It’s common for both adults and children to experience eye strain. Especially in today’s digital age, it’s become a relatively serious problem. After all, millions of people spend countless hours on their cell phones, iPads, computers, and tablets every day. Fortunately, you have options to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

What’s Digital Eye Strain?

Digital eye strain is the result of overexertion. Simply put, staring at a screen on your computer, phone, or table for prolonged periods puts a great deal of strain on the eyes. Not only does this cause blurry vision and dry eyes but also headaches. For this, a lot of people find relief by closing their eyes and allowing them to rest.
 

Although any adult can develop digital eye strain, it’s often exacerbated in those who wear prescription eyeglasses. The reason is that some bifocals, as well as progressive lenses, don’t ergonomically support reading data on a computer screen. So, if you work on a computer as part of your job, talk to a vision expert about eyeglasses made with occupational or computer lenses.
 

On average, adults spend almost seven hours a day looking at the screen of a digital device. Compared to just nine years ago, that’s an increase of roughly 50 minutes. Kids spend anywhere from six to nine hours a day using digital devices.
 

This shows that both adults and kids are at risk for digital eye strain. Usually, this doesn’t create serious or permanent damage. However, it does cause temporary discomfort or pain, as well as the other symptoms mentioned.

Ways to Maintain Eye Health and Comfort

Regardless of your job, you probably have no choice but to use a digital device. As for your kids, it’s important to limit the amount of time they’re on cell phones, computers, iPads, and tablets. In addition, you can both benefit from the solutions below.

Follow the 20/20/20 Rule

This rule entails taking a 20-second break whenever you look at a screen for 20 minutes and look at something that’s a minimum of 20 feet away. If possible, give your eyes an even longer break.

Choose a Different Screen Setting

You can change the screen settings on all digital devices. To reduce the risk of eye strain, start by lowering the brightness level. In addition, change the color contrast and increase the font size.

Don’t Sit Too Closely

Holding a cell phone, iPad, or tablet too close to the face also contributes to digital eye strain. Therefore, keep it about 18 inches away while reading what’s on the screen.

Reduce Blue Light

Because of its short wavelength, blue light can damage the eyes. Whether you use an Apple or Android device, either reduce the blue light in the settings or wear special glasses that reduce it.

Switch to Night Mode

Here’s another great tip for smartphone users. Go to Settings and select the night mode feature. The nice thing about this is that the phone automatically adjusts how the screen looks based on the time of day.

Use Anti-Reflective Screen Protectors

You can buy these for any type of digital device. With a matte finish, they reduce glare. Not only are they easy to apply but also incredibly inexpensive.

Blink, Blink, and Blink Some More

Although this might sound a bit odd, it’s important to blink more often when using a digital device. All too often, people focus on the screen and forget about blinking. However, this helps to keep the eyes moist. At the same time, it allows the eyes to refocus. The two combined reduce the symptoms of eye strain.

Have Your Eyes Examined Regularly

This is another great way to protect your eyes from strain. At Eye Carumba Optometry, one of our vision experts will look for signs of this and other problems. From there, they’ll offer safe and effective solutions. To schedule an appointment, contact our San Francisco, California, eye care clinic at 415-360-6900.