Digital eye strain is also known as computer vision syndrome. It can affect adults, but it can also affect children who spend long hours using digital devices like computers, tablets, smartphones, and video game consoles.
Digital eye strain is something we can help your family manage by providing advice and personal support during eye exams.
Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
Some of the common symptoms of digital eye strain include:
- Eye discomfort, such as dry eyes, burning sensations, general eye irritation, and sandy, gritty sensations in the eyes.
- Eye fatigue, such as tired, strained eyes that feel heavy or sore.
- Headaches, particularly around the forehead, temples, or back of the head.
- Blurred vision, which can be caused by extended periods of focusing on screens.
Tips for Preventing Digital Eye Strain
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Encourage kids to take regular breaks from their screens every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.
- Ensure you use proper lighting: Make sure rooms with screens are well-lit with no potential sources of glare on screens. Avoid positioning screens directly in front of windows or bright light sources.
- Maintain an appropriate viewing distance: Kids should sit approximately an arm’s length away from screens, and the top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level.
- Limit screen time: Find a good balance of recreational screen time, reading, and outdoor play.
- Encourage outdoor play: Encourage kids to spend time outdoors, which can help reduce eye strain by limiting screen time.
- Visit your optometrist: Schedule regular eye exams with an optometrist to monitor your family’s eye health and detect any vision problems early.
If you have any concerns about your child’s vision, we recommend reaching out to your local Hamilton optometrist.
Book an appointment with Perception Eyecare today by calling 289-309-1090!
