Technology has improved our lives in many ways! However, when over-used, they present risks to our Vision and Eye Health. So it is not uncommon to hear heavy digital device users complaining of eye strain, blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, and even neck & shoulder pain.
Many factors can contribute to digital eye strain, some of them includes:
1. Extended period of looking at near objects.
Compare to looking at far objects, our eyes work harder when we are looking at near objects. Extended hours of looking at phones, laptop screens are like carrying "weights" for our eyes. Causing eye muscle to strain and tired out.
2. Reduce blinking
When we are engrossed into a task, whether it is a phone, screen or even watching a game on tv, we tend to blink less and this can dry up our eyes
3. Staying in a fixed position for too long
Staying in a fixed position, reduces blood circulation, and can cause stress on the neck and shoulder.
1. Take Visual Break
Remember is 20-20-20, for every 20 minutes of digital devices usage, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
2. Blink more often
It will help with dry eye symptoms
3. Set up your work station ergonomically
Move laptop or monitor screen 20-28 inches from your eyes, adjust the screen to be slightly below eye level, reduce surrounding light, and adjust screen brightness
5. Get an Eye Exam
Most importantly, get an eye exam as there might be underlying vision problem that we need to address.
