Digital Strain & Dry Eye

What is Digital Strain?

Digital eye strain, also referred to as Computer vision syndrome, describes a group of eye, and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e Books-reader, and smartphone users.

Most of the users of digital screens experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods. The level of discomfort appears to increase with the amount of digital screen use. Which may cause digital eye strain or dry eyes problems.

The most common symptoms associated with Digital eyestrain are:

Eyestrain and dry eyes.
Headaches.
Blurred vision.
Pain in eyes.
Neck and shoulder pain.

Digital eye strain symptoms may be caused by:

Poor lighting.
Glare on a digital screen.
Improper viewing distances.
Poor seating posture.
Uncorrected vision problems.
A combination of these factors.

Some important factors in preventing or reducing the symptoms:

The 20-20-20 rule is the best:

While using a digital screen take a break of only 20 seconds every 20 minutes and try to look at distant objects at least 20 feet away. This helps in relaxing the internal eye muscles and decreases the accommodative stress.

Location of a computer screen will be helpful:

Most people find it more comfortable to view a computer when the eyes are looking downward. Optimally, the computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (about 4 or 5 inches) as measured from the center of the screen and 20 to 28 inches from the eyes.

Reference materials:

These materials should be located above the keyboard and below the monitor. If this is not possible, a document holder can be used beside the monitor. The goal is to position the documents so you do not need to move your head to look from the document to the screen.

Lighting plays an important role:

Position the computer screen to avoid glare, particularly from overhead lighting or windows. Use blinds or drapes on windows and replace the light bulbs in desk lamps with bulbs of lower wattage.

Anti-glare screens and specs:

If there is no way to minimize glare from light sources, consider using a screen glare filter. These filters decrease the amount of light reflected from the screen.

The seating position is the key to avoid:

Chairs should be comfortably padded and conform to the body. Chair height should be adjusted so your feet rest flat on the floor. If your chair has arms, they should be adjusted to provide arm support while you are typing. Your wrists shouldn’t rest on the keyboard when typing.

Blinking eyes will do magic:

To minimize your chances of developing dry eyes when using a computer, make an effort to blink frequently. Blinking keeps the front surface of your eye moist.