Computers, cell phones, and tablets get more and more advanced every year and the progression of technology seems to be moving at a blinding pace. These devices are almost a necessity in today’s world, for everything from work to education. Computers and other digital tools are used every day by millions of students. With many children either learning from home or having a hybrid learning experience, they may have their eyes glued to a screen for several hours every day. Having your eyes locked on a screen for an extended period of time can have some unforeseen consequences.
Digital eye strain encompasses several eye and vision-related problems that people should be aware of. Vision problems have already been linked to ADHD – check out our blog here for some details about that. While we can introduce therapy for ADHD and come up with strategies for students with ADHD, we want to help you learn about it before it becomes a problem.
Digital eye strain can lead to vision problems that can cause other issues, so we would like to take some time to address it.
When looking at a computer or digital screen for extended periods of time, your eyes have to work harder than they normally would. Text and other images on screens may not be as clear or as sharp as they are on paper or in books. The contrast of text and images is also different when comparing screens to printed materials. Screens also tend to have a glare on them, which means your eyes will focus and adjust differently and you may have more rapid eye movement when looking at digital devices. This can create an unnecessary strain on your eyes. Some of the symptoms of digital eye strain are headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and even neck and shoulder pain. Other things that can contribute to these symptoms include poor ambient lighting, improper posture, and intense viewing angles or distances. All of these factors can contribute to digital eye strain that can then also indirectly cause other issues.
There are things that you can do to improve your experience when viewing screens for prolonged periods of time.
Relocating your screen can make a big difference. If you are using a computer, the screen should ideally be four to five inches below your eye level at an angle of fifteen to twenty degrees. It should also be around two feet away from your eyes. If you are switching between looking at a screen and a paper document like a worksheet or a book, they should be closer to your screen either below it or to the sides. Using a document holder can also help in this regard. The idea is to not have your eyes travel unnecessarily. If possible, purchase a device that has a matte finish instead of a glossy one. This can help reduce glare from other light sources. You may also be able to purchase a film or filter to put over your screen.
One of the best things you can do is take a break and rest your eyes. Every one to two hours, you should take a break from the screen for at least fifteen minutes. You can even take mini breaks while you are working. A good rule of thumb is to use the 20-20-20 method. Every twenty minutes, look at something that is twenty feet away for twenty seconds straight. Lastly, make sure you are blinking sufficiently. Staring at a screen without blinking can make your eyes dry and cause irritation.
The Vision Development Center Of Lancaster understands that this past year has been tough for many people. Students may have had the most disruption having to switch learning environments and adapt to new techniques.
Vision problems may lead to ADHD, but we can be here every step of the way to assist with therapy and strategies that can identify problems and solve them before they get out of hand.
Call us today at 717-656-0534 to find out how we can help with any of your vision needs.