Everything You Need to Know About Computer Eyestrain: Symptoms, Preventative Tips, and More

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Originally Posted On: https://floridaindependent.com/eyestrain-symptoms-preventative-tips/

In today’s world, working on a PC or laptop is standard. Most people spend hours staring at a computer screen for work or recreational reasons.

In fact, 80% of American adults use electronic devices for more than two hours per day, and 59% experience eyestrain symptoms. As great as computers are, they have a downside.

If you had issues with your vision and you believe it’s due to eyestrain, this article can help. Keep reading to learn about common symptoms and treatment options.

Digital eyestrain— also known as computer vision syndrome— is caused by looking at digital devices for long periods. Staring at devices like computers, tablets, and cell phones can all lead to eyestrain headaches and other ailments. There are several symptoms associated with eyestrain, including:

• Blurry or double vision
• Eye fatigue
• Eye discomfort
• Headaches
• Dry eyes
• Irritated eyes
• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Shoulder pain

Everyone has different experiences with eyestrain. For some people, their eyes are tired after a long day. While another person might have blurry vision and headaches.

Two of the primary causes of eyestrain are blue light and glare. Blue light is high-energy illumination that sits on the top end of the light spectrum. It’s located next to the UV light, which means it has a short wavelength.

Computers nowadays are made to be more energy efficient. The good thing is, PC’s are better for the environment and more economical. On the downside, the high-energy light causes eye irritation.

Furthermore, blue light has other side effects. It stalls melatonin secretion which helps individuals fall asleep. Viewing digital devices at night makes it harder to go to sleep and creates poor sleep quality.

In regards to glare, it minimizes the blink rate. When a person is fixated on a digital device, they don’t blink as often. However, blinking prevents our eyes from drying out. As a result, individuals who stare at digital screens get itchy, dry eyes.

Although digital eyestrain is a common occurrence, there are ways to reduce it. Below are the most effective methods:

Undergoing a routine eye exam is one of the best things you can do for your eyes. During your visit, the eye doctor can diagnose any issues you may have with vision. Also, if you need glasses, they write a prescription that’ll help you see better.

Speaking of vision exams, if you need a reliable optometrist, check out Eye Doctor Pocatello.

Glare from the light coming off of the walls and other surfaces can cause eyestrain. To prevent this, use an anti-glare screen to shield against it.

Also, if you wear glasses, buy a pair with anti-reflective coating. It minimizes glare by decreasing the light reflecting off the surfaces of your eyeglass lenses.

Changing the settings on your computer can help with eyestrain. By adjusting the brightness, it gives your eyes some relief. For best results, make the brightness level the same as the light in your surrounding workstation.

One of the primary causes of eyestrain is focusing fatigue. To reduce the risk of tired eyes, look away from the screen every 20 minutes, and stare at an object in the distance. Do this exercise for at least 20 seconds at a time.

Another method is to look far away for 10-15 seconds, then gaze at an object for 10-15 seconds. Then, look at the distant object once again. Repeat this routine at least 10 times. This exercise reduces your risk of computer eyestrain.

Blinking is essential when working on a computer. It moistens the eyes and combats against irritation and dryness. Furthermore, blinking is good when working in office environments. The dry air can increase how fast your tears evaporate.

For the best protection for your eyes, wear computer glasses. When you go to the eye doctor, have them alter your eyeglass prescription to make them customized computer glasses. They’re also a good option if you wear bifocals or progressive lenses.

Another choice to consider is photochromic lenses or lightly tinted lenses. This type of computer eyewear to decreases your exposure to damaging blue light.

Eyestrain is generally caused by excessive bright lights from outside or the sun. When you use a PC, the light should be almost as bright as the illumination in most offices.

To shield against exterior sun rays, close your drapes or blinds. Then, minimize inside lighting by using fewer light bulbs. You could also use bulbs with lower intensity.

Plus, it’s a good idea to move your computer screen, so that the windows are to the side, not in front of or behind it.

When using digital devices, make sure you take frequent breaks. When you have these breaks, be sure to stand, move your arms, legs, neck, and shoulder. Doing this helps to minimize muscle fatigue and tension.

It’s best to step away from working at least 10 minutes per hour.

If you are suffering from eyestrain symptoms, use the simple tactics above to find relief. Thankfully, this condition is easily managed with diligence and a few precautions.

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