In recent months, the use of our screens became increasingly prevalent as adults and families spent more time at home to reduce the spread of COVID-19, utilizing electronics for work, school and recreational time with friends and family.
While our screens allow us to stay connected regardless of the circumstances, this time spent on digital devices also presents the added risk of developing symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome.
Computer Vision Syndrome, also referred to as Digital Eye Strain, describes a group of vision problems brought on by prolonged use of computers, tablets, smartphones and e-readers. Symptoms of eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, with the possible bonus of neck and shoulder pain after using such devices.
Those most at risk of experiencing symptoms typically spend two or more hours continually using screens per day.
We don’t just look at our computer screens, we stare at them. In fact, our blink rate plummets from about 12 blinks a minute to six when we stare at computer screens. As a result, tears evaporate off the eyes, and they don’t accumulate again until we step away from the screen and start blinking. This causes inflammation on the eye’s surface. That’s why your eyes feel dry and tired after a day spent at the computer. If you don’t blink enough, your eyes dry out, causing blurry vision and discomfort.
Dr. Trevor Elmquist, a board-certified ophthalmologist at Elmquist Eye Group, recommends following the 20/20/20 rule: Every twenty minutes, take a twenty-second break and look at something at a distance of 20 feet or more.
“Doing so will allow the eyes to rest and recuperate, and it can alleviate a lot of the strain,” said Dr. Elmquist. Extended focus on screens can also lead you to forget to blink, so be sure to stop every few minutes and blink a few times to keep the eyes lubricated and clear. There are many apps available to remind you to follow this rule.
It’s also important to position screens correctly. A computer screen should be four or five inches below eye level and 20 to 28 inches away. The screen should also be positioned to avoid glare from overhead lights or windows. Screens should be kept clean of fingerprint smears and dust.
Looking at screens taxes the eye more than other activities for many reasons. Backlighting, high contrast between light and dark areas, and small fonts and images all make it more difficult for the eye to properly focus and adjust to provide a clear picture. Eye strain may result from difficulty focusing on the text and images on computer screens, since they are made of pixels that create blurry edges.
In addition, people with prescription glasses or contact lenses may experience additional strain if their lens prescriptions are not specifically designed to work with screens. Glasses wearers can consider using a high-quality, anti-glare treatment in your eyewear lenses that will help protect your eyes when using electronic devices.
Computer Vision Syndrome can be diagnosed during a comprehensive eye examination.
By testing how the eyes focus, move and work together, the doctor can understand how your eyes function under strain and advise ways to treat the condition.
In this digital era, the responsible use of electronic devices is more important than ever. Ophthalmologists and optometrists can help you keep sight of healthy vision by highlighting the tools and techniques available to relieve your symptoms and use your devices comfortably.
If you have concerns about your vision, it is important to speak to a doctor to discuss treatment options. With more than 25 years of service to the Southwest Florida community, Elmquist Eye Group offers experienced doctors who are dedicated to patient care. Dr. E. Trevor Elmquist, Dr. Kate Wagner, Dr. Sarah Eccles-Brown and Dr. Nina Burt of Elmquist Eye Group are available to answer your questions. With three U.S. military veterans leading the practice, rest assured knowing that Elmquist Eye Group’s team stands ready to serve you with knowledge and experience right here in Southwest Florida.
For more information, visit www.Elmquist.com, call 239-936-2020 or stop by an Optical Boutique location in Fort Myers or Cape Coral.
Optical Boutique
239-936-2020
www.elmquist.com
FORT MYERS
7970 Summerlin Lakes Dr.
CAPE CORAL
2336 Surfside Blvd., Suite 121