Digital age creates eye strain

The average U.S. worker spends seven hours a day on the computer either in the office or working from home. According to an American Optometric Association’s 2015 survey, 58 percent of adults surveyed have experienced digital eye strain or vision problems as a direct result.

Digital eye strain is defined as a temporary vision condition caused by prolonged use of electronic devices. Each March, the AOA reminds Americans of the importance of eye health and regular, comprehensive eye exams to identify and treat digital eye strain symptoms. The earlier a vision problem is detected and treated, the more likely it is that treatment will be successful.

As part of this year’s campaign, the AOA encourages both employees and employers to make eye health a priority. Symptoms of digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, include eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, burning or tired eyes, double vision, and neck and shoulder pain.

“As more people spend their days at work on a computer and their free time on handheld devices, doctors of optometry are seeing more patients who are experiencing digital eye strain,” said former AOA President Steven A. Loomis. “The problem can be relieved by taking simple steps. Just looking away from the computer for brief periods of time throughout the day can help with discomfort and long-term eye problems.”

All electronic devices give off high-energy, short wavelength blue and violet light. This light can also contribute to eye strain and discomfort. Blue light also affects the body’s natural circadian rhythm that controls our sleep patterns.

These tips can easily be implemented in most office spaces.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Take a 20-second break, every 20 minutes and view something 20 feet away.

• Keep a distance. The AOA recommends sitting a comfortable distance from the computer monitor where you can easily read all text with your head and torso in an upright posture and your back supported by your chair. Generally, the preferred viewing distance is between 20 and 28 inches from the eye to the front surface of the screen.

• View from a different angle. Ideally, the computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees, or about 4 to 5 inches, below eye level as measured from the center of the screen.

• Decrease glare. While there is no way to completely minimize glare from light sources, consider using a glare filter. These filters decrease the amount of light reflected from the screen.

• Blink often. Minimize your chances of developing dry eyes when using a computer by making an effort to blink frequently.

“Another way to decrease eye strain and possibly improve your quality of sleep each night is to stop using electronic devices before bed,” said Dr. Ashley Hamblin. “Studies have shown that the blue light emitted from devices such as phones, tablets and TVs interferes with the body’s natural circadian rhythm and disrupts the natural sleep cycle. It is recommended to stop using devices at least two hours prior to sleep and to use nighttime mode on your devices to limit the amount of blue light your eyes are receiving.”

This article was submitted courtesy of Northern Minnesota Eyecare and the American Optometric Association.