How Screen Time Affects Your Eyesight?

 

While most of us are aware that screen time affects our physical health, such as leading to obesity and chronic back pain, few of us know that it also has a negative effect on our eye health. Learn how too much screen time will strain your eyes, cause dryness and even lead to blindness.

 

What is the Effect of Screen Time on Eyesight?

The effect of screen time on eyesight is both well-documented and complex. While staring at screens for extended periods of time can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and even nearsightedness, the effects vary depending on age, usage habits, and overall health.

For children, too much screen time has been linked to increased risk of myopia, or nearsightedness. A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that every additional hour of screen time was associated with a 14% increased risk of myopia.

Adults who spend hours staring at screens may also experience eye strain and fatigue. Computer vision syndrome is a condition that can cause eyestrain, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain from prolonged computer use. If you experience these symptoms after using screens for long periods of time, take breaks every 20 minutes or so to rest your eyes.

While there are risks associated with excessive screen time, it’s important to keep things in perspective – the vast majority of people who use screens regularly don’t experience any serious problems with their eyesight. In fact, for many people, screens have become an essential part of work and daily life. Just be sure to take breaks often, practice good posture while using screens, and visit an eye doctor regularly to ensure your vision is healthy.

 

The Difference Between Glare and Brightness

Glare is light that reflects off of a surface, while brightness is the intensity of light coming from a source. Glare can be caused by light reflecting off of a glossy surface, like a computer screen, or by bright sunlight. Brightness, on the other hand, is determined by the wattage of a light bulb or the strength of the sun. Too much glare or brightness can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue.

 

Tips for Protecting Your Eyesight

If you're spending a lot of time looking at screens, it's important to take some steps to protect your eyesight. Here are some tips:

Make sure the screen is at eye level. This will help reduce strain on your eyes.

Take breaks often. Every 20 minutes or so, look away from the screen for at least 20 seconds.

Blink often. This helps keep your eyes lubricated and reduces dryness and irritation.

Use artificial tears if your eyes feel dry.

Adjust the lighting. If the room is too bright or too dark, it can strain your eyes.

 

Conclusion

As our world becomes more and more digital, it's important to be aware of the impact that screen time can have on our eyesight. Too much screen time can lead to eye strain, dry eyes, and even blurred vision. If you find yourself spending a lot of time in front of screens, make sure to take breaks often and give your eyes a rest. You may also want to consider investing in a pair of blue light blocking glasses to help reduce the amount of strain on your eyes. For proper treatment, book an appointment with a best vision care provider near you.