Digital Screens and Your Eye Health

Whether you use a computer for work or watch shows or movies on a smartphone, digital screens have become increasingly prevalent in our daily lives. However, excessive screen use can lead to several eye and vision issues, including computer vision syndrome and dry eyes. H. Arnold Papernick OD, in Mt. Pleasant, PA, offers solutions for these frequent eye problems. We are here to tell you more about how digital screens affect your eye health and how we can help.

Understanding Computer Vision

Computer vision is an increasingly common eye condition occurring when you stare at a computer screen for extended periods. Also known as digital eye strain, this condition can cause several frustrating symptoms that impact your ability to see clearly and comfortably. People with computer vision syndrome may experience one or more of the following:

•             Dry eyes

•             Headaches

•             Itchy eyes

•             Red eyes

•             Blurred vision

A frequent issue when using digital screens is a lack of blinking. People often forget to blink when using a screen for work or entertainment. A lack of blinking can lead to eye dryness and fatigue since your eyes must work harder to maintain visual clarity.

How to Improve Your Eye Health

Fortunately, you can take several steps to improve your eye health when using digital screens. The 20-20-20 rule is where you look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds after using a screen for 20 minutes. Doing this helps your eyes refocus and reduces strain. Blinking more frequently when using a computer and adjusting your screen brightness also helps with dry eyes.

Contact our optometrist near you for evaluation if you have more severe symptoms of digital eye strain. We can recommend eye drops or artificial tears to lubricate your eyes and prevent dry eyes and general eye fatigue. We can also prescribe corrective lenses to help you see more clearly and comfortably when using a computer. Our optometrist may recommend lifestyle adjustments to reduce your risk of developing computer vision syndrome or dry eyes.

See Your Optometrist Near You in Mt Pleasant, PA, to Regain Visual Clarity and Comfort

Computer vision and dry eyes can significantly impact your ability to work effectively or enjoy activities involving a computer screen, so contact H. Arnold Papernick OD, in Mt. Pleasant, PA, to get the eye care necessary to see clearly and comfortably again. Call us and schedule an appointment today at (724) 547-5711.