Digital Eye Strain | Prairie Vision Center of Bondurant |

Screen-Based Eye Strain

What does your technology do for you? Today, we can order dinner, buy concert tickets, chat with friends, play games, and even work, all from virtually any device with a screen. Smartphones, gaming consoles, computers, and tablets make our lives more convenient.

But, there are some drawbacks to increased screen time. It’s almost impossible to get away from devices at school, work, and home, and as a result, an estimated 65% of Americans suffer from discomfort related to digital eye strain. Too much screen time can also affect how kids’ eyes develop, linking to an increased risk of myopia (nearsightedness).

Digital eye strain is also known as computer vision syndrome. It refers to a group of ocular issues stemming from too much time spent using digital devices.

If you’re experiencing eye discomfort after staring at your screen, we can help. We’ll assess your screen habits and provide some strategies to mitigate your discomfort. Keep reading for more specifics on symptoms to watch out for.

Book an appointment to talk to us more about any symptoms you’re noticing after using your digital devices.

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Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

There are a few common symptoms associated with digital eye strain, including:

Dry eyes
Headaches
Eye strain
Blurry vision
Neck and shoulder pain

Often, symptoms will alleviate when you take a solid screen time break. But, the discomfort will return once you’re in front of a digital device again. To find long-term relief, you’ll need to implement some prevention strategies.

It’s also important to visit your optometrist to help detect any other conditions that might affect your eye comfort.

Things You Can Try Before Your Appointment

Adjusting your work area, taking intentional screen breaks, and ensuring you have sufficient lighting while using your digital device are all strategies that can help reduce digital eye strain.

Adding a blue filter to your lens material can also help decrease glare from computer screens and help reduce tiredness at the end of the day.

Most patients will notice some of these strategies help, but they do not eliminate eye strain completely.

Kids & Digital Eye Strain

Increased device use also means kids are spending more time indoors. The World Health Organization recommends limiting screen time for children and encouraging them to play outside instead. Spending at least 2 hours outside each day can help protect against developing nearsightedness.

Children should have regular, comprehensive eye exams to support the health of their vision, regardless of their screen time. Schedule an appointment to support your child’s eye health today.

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