Excessive Screen Time Hurts Eyes

Do you know what Computer Vision Syndrome is or what are its symptoms?  Most American’s don’t while many suffer from symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome here in Indiana and across the nation.  Vision doctors in a Healthnewsdigest.com report said 1/3 of their patients suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome or digital device related vision problems.  And this number is growing.

American workers are spending 200 billion hours in front of digital screens each year with an average of 6 hours a day for a working professional.  This is a lot of screen time for the eyes to focus on and thus eyes are becoming strained and tired from staring at computer screens and other screens like smart phones or video games.  Eye strain was most commonly reported as a symptom from excess screen time followed by dry irritated eyes, fatigue, and headaches.

A major problem with Computer Vision Syndrome?  Most American’s have a little understanding of what it is and what the symptoms could mean.  Work productivity can decrease by as much as 20% with Computer Vision Syndrome and overall well-being and learning capacity can be altered for those suffering too much screen time.

Dr. Tavel Indiana eye centers like our Anderson vision center and Bloomington vision center see many students with eye strain from overuse of computer screens each year especially around exam time.  The best advice from our Anderson and Bloomington eye doctors as well as Healthnewsdigest.com?

-Blink often.  When staring at a computer screen or any kind of screen we blink less allowing for eyes to become drier.  Start blinking more!

-20/20/20 rule.  When using a screen for long period of time, every 20 minutes take 20 seconds to focus on something 20 feet away!  This gives eyes a needed break.

-As always, read in proper lighting.  Switch on a lamp mid-afternoon especially if light fades in your part of the office at that time of day to ensure your eyes can see and read all they need too.

-Talk to your eye care doctor about how much time you spend in front of a screen and be sure to get yearly eye examinations.

Now that you know about Computer Vision Syndrome, share with others to spread further awareness about the symptoms and ways to help your eyes feel less strain from the screen!