April is Digital Eye Strain Month

As we spend more and more time in front of digital screens, the importance of protecting our eyes becomes increasingly clear. April is Digital Eye Strain Month, a time to raise awareness about the risks of digital eye strain and educate people on how they can prevent it.

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common condition that affects people who spend long hours in front of screens. Symptoms can include eye strain, headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain.

So, what causes digital eye strain? One of the main culprits is blue light, which is emitted by electronic screens such as smartphones, computers, and televisions. Blue light can disrupt your sleep cycle, cause eye strain, and increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Other factors that can contribute to digital eye strain include poor lighting, glare, improper posture, and screen brightness and contrast settings.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to protect your eyes from digital eye strain. Here are some tips:

1. Take regular breaks: Every 20 minutes, take a break from looking at your screen and focus on something in the distance for at least 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.

2. Adjust your screen settings: Adjust your screen brightness and contrast to reduce eye strain and glare. Also, make sure your screen is at a comfortable distance and angle.

3. Practice good posture: Sit up straight and position your screen so that your eyes are level with the top of the screen.

4. Use computer glasses: Special glasses designed for computer use can help reduce eye strain and fatigue by blocking blue light and improving contrast.

5. Use artificial tears: If you experience dry eyes or discomfort while working on the computer, try using artificial tears to lubricate your eyes.

In addition to these tips, it's important to get regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and detect any problems early on. According to a report by The Vision Council, nearly 60% of adults who spend more than two hours a day in front of screens experience symptoms of digital eye strain, but only 32% have had an eye exam in the past year.

The report also found that people who spend more than eight hours a day in front of screens are at increased risk of developing digital eye strain. This is especially concerning given that many of us spend a significant portion of our day working on computers or using smartphones.

Digital Eye Strain Month serves as an important reminder to take care of our eyes in today's digital world. By following these tips and getting regular eye exams, we can help protect our eyes from the harmful effects of digital screens and maintain good eye health for years to come. Schedule an appointment with our optometrist for an eye exam and get help finding the perfect pair. Make an Appointment Today and visit Southaven Primary Eye Care.