Eyestrain is a common condition caused by the use of digital devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets is better known as computer vision syndrome or digital eyestrain and can be treated with simple, noninvasive methods. Prolonged eyestrain or eye irritation may be a sign of something more serious and should be discussed with your doctor.
According to an article written by Natalie Silver, medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg and updated on September 29, 2017 on Healthline.com, here are some tips to prevent you from developing eyestrain.
1. Look away frequently, or the 20-20-20 rule: Eyestrain usually occurs when you engage in a single activity for too long a period of time without a break. You should shift your focus to something other than the activity every 20 minutes. What you focus on should be 20 feet away, and you should look at it for at least 20 seconds. This is known as the 20-20-20 rule. Also make sure to turn away from an intense activity for several hours during the day. If you have to work at a screen or drive a long distance for multiple hours, make sure to balance that activity with others that demand different uses of your eyes. For example, take a walk outside in the natural light during your lunch break if you’ve spent the whole morning working on a computer.
2. Position your screen propey and use the right light for your eyes: Distance and position is important so the screen should be a few feet away from your eyes, or about arm’s length. You should view the screen at the level of your eyes or slightly below them. You can also adjust text size in your settings to suit you. The right light is not too dim or too bright so adjust brightness on your devices as well.
3. Use eye drops: When you focus intensely on one screen, the number of times you blink drastically reduces, causing dryness in your eyes. You can prevent it by blinking more or using eyes drops to moisten your eyes.
4. Wear proper eyewear: To reduce eyestrain, you may need specialized lenses, devices, or eye therapy for the activity that causes strain. Certain coatings and tints for lenses may help your eyes. Or you may find that you need to cut the time you wear contact lenses to help rest your eyes. You can consult your doctor to find out.
Finally, limiting time exposed to a single activity that requires intense focus and spending less time on digital devices is a simple way to avoid eyestrain.
