Preventing and Treating Eye Strain in a Digital World

In today’s digital age, screens are constantly present in our daily lives. However, prolonged screen time can lead to eye strain.

Fortunately, preventing eye strain can help you maintain your eye health in a screen-dominated world. Discover some tips for combatting this common issue below.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce eyestrain is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps relax the eye muscles and reduce fatigue. Set a timer or use an app to remind you to take these short breaks throughout the day.

Adjust Your Screen Settings

Adjusting your screen settings can make a big difference in reducing eye strain. Start by lowering your screen brightness to match the ambient light in your environment. Increase text size and contrast for easier reading. You can use a blue light filter to reduce the strain caused by harsh blue light emitted from digital devices. 

Optimize Your Workspace Ergonomics

Proper screen positioning is necessary to minimize eye strain. Position your screen at least an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level. This reduces glare and encourages a natural, downward gaze. Ensure your workspace has adequate lighting that doesn’t cause glare on your screen. 

Blink Often and Stay Hydrated

When staring at screens, we tend to blink less frequently. This can lead to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often to keep your eyes moist. Additionally, staying hydrated helps maintain tear production and overall eye health. Consider using lubricating eye drops as well if dryness persists.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams 

Regular eye exams can help if you spend long hours in front of screens. An optometrist can detect early signs of digital eye strain. They can recommend corrective lenses, blue light-blocking glasses, or other treatments to alleviate symptoms. Make sure to discuss any screen-related discomfort during your appointment.

Book Your Eye Care Exam in Loveland, CO

Preventing and treating eye strain in our digital world can help you maintain overall eye health. If you need an eye exam, contact us at 970-669-1107 and schedule an appointment with Kirk Eye Center.