Have you been noticing that your eyes are more irritated and tired than usual? You\u2019re not alone. For most of us, digital devices have a strong and growing presence in our lives. Computers, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices with visual displays can all cause tired eyes and digital eye strain, referred to as \u2018computer vision syndrome\u2019.<\/p>\n
Computer vision syndrome is the name for a group of eye and vision symptoms that might be experienced as a result of viewing digital devices for an extended period of time.
\nThese symptoms can include eye strain, red or tired eyes, irritation, blurred vision, double vision and headaches.<\/p>\n
For most of us, our eyes prefer to focus further than six metres away, so viewing a computer screen forces our eyes to work harder. While it\u2019s normal for us to blink about 15 times a minute, studies have shown that we blink far less often while using digital devices resulting in dry, scratchy and red eyes.<\/p>\n
Generally speaking, the type or font that we are viewing on a digital device can be small or unclear, and glare is emitted off the screen from the blue light. The frequency of blue light emitted from LED devices is also being researched for its long-term effects on the eye and potential impact on altering sleep cycles.<\/p>\n
The combination of these unique characteristics, and our eyes having to work harder, can often lead to difficulty. The extent to which people experience visual symptoms often depends on the level of their visual abilities and the amount of time looking at a digital screen.<\/p>\n
Extended periods of focusing on screens up close results in the muscles having to exert significant focusing effort to make these objects clear. As with any of the muscles in the body, they can fatigue and tire out if not given the opportunity to occasionally rest and relax. The muscles which control eye movements and focusing are typically relaxed when we look at objects in the distance.<\/p>\n
It can be hard to remember to rest our eyes, but we should all apply the 20-20-20 rule when spending time on devices. The 20-20-20 rule is shifting your focus to something other than your device every 20 minutes. Then what you focus on should be 20 feet (6 meters) away and you should look at it, for at least 20 seconds.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s all remember to apply the 20-20-20 rule daily so our eyes can stay at their best for longer.<\/p>\n
If you are still experiencing eye strain or irritation, it is best to consult your optometrist to discuss the best treatment options for you. Book an appointment easily online today.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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