How Do You Treat Digital Eye Strain?

Everyone has experienced eye strain at one point or another. The common condition occurs when the eyes are tired after intense use. Eye strain can be due to lack of sleep, dim lighting, driving long distances, or prolonged use of digital devices.

Prevalent use of computers and other digital devices has led to an increase in eye strain, especially among the youth. Digital eye strain can affect anyone at any age. Find out how you treat digital eye strain.

Digital Eye Strain

The most common cause of eye strain is the extended use of digital devices. Digital eye strain (DES), also known as computer vision syndrome (CVS), is a condition that affects children and adults.

Research suggests that over 87% of individuals in the country use digital devices for two or more hours daily. Over 75% of children are experiencing the effects of DES. For most people, resting the eyes helps to relieve the symptoms.

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

Several symptoms can indicate you are experiencing digital eye strain. DES symptoms include:

Tired, sore, itchy, or burning sensation.
Dry or watery eyes.
Blurry or double vision.
Headaches.
Neck, shoulder, or back soreness.
Increased photophobia or light sensitivity.
Difficulty keeping the eyes open.
Difficulty concentrating.

Why Digital Eye Strain Happens

Eye specialists suggest that people who use digital devices for two or more hours daily risk experiencing DES. The devices cause more strain than printed material due to poor text and background contrast.

People also tend to blink less frequently when using the devices, unlike when reading a book. Blinking helps to keep the eyes moisturized. Devices produce glare or reflection that stresses the eyes, and most people view the devices at incorrect distances or angles.

Underlying eye issues can predispose individuals to eye strain. Uncorrected vision and eye muscle imbalance can worsen DES. Other factors are poor posture, poor lighting, and incorrect positioning of the devices. While it may not have serious complications, digital eye strain can be uncomfortable. It can make it difficult to concentrate.

Treating Digital Eye Strain

Making changes in your habits can help to relieve symptoms of DES. If you have an underlying eye problem, treating the condition can reduce eye strain. Eye specialists can recommend computer or reading eyeglasses to reduce strain. Other DES treatment solutions include:

Adjusting the lighting when using digital devices.
Taking frequent breaks when working on the computer.
Blinking often when using the devices.
Using artificial tears to keep the eyes lubricated.
Limiting screen time.
Choosing the best eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Positioning your monitor correctly.
Adjusting screen setting for easier reading.

Comprehensive Eye Exam

Scheduling regular comprehensive eye exams will help keep your eyes healthy and avoid vision problems. During the exam, the specialist can determine the cause of your eye strain. If you have an underlying eye issue, the doctor will recommend treatment.

During the exam, tell the eye doctor how often you use digital devices. The doctor will test your vision at specific distances. Eye specialists may recommend computer eyeglasses to treat the condition.

Poor air quality may be causing eye strain. Check your environment to ensure you have adequate humidity.

For more on how you treat digital eye strain, visit Chan Eye Care. Our office is in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Call (757) 430-8800 to book an appointment today.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eyestrain/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372403

https://www.allaboutvision.com/cvs/irritated.htm