Advances in technology allow us to watch content on demand, talk in real-time with someone across the world, or download a book on a whim.
As a result, we spend a lot of time looking at screens. Per a recent study, Americans spend an average of 28 hours a week just on recreational screen time – not factoring in work-related screen time.
As a consequence, digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is on the rise. Looking at screens makes your eyes work harder than they would if you were reading printed text or looking at real-world objects. Computer vision syndrome can manifest in eye strain, headaches, blurry vision, and dry eyes. If you already have vision-related issues such as astigmatism or age-related eye changes, you may be at a higher risk of developing computer vision syndrome. (The amount of harmful blue light your eyes experience from screens may also hurt your retinas.)
Give your eyes a break by following the 20-20-20 rule:
If you have off-screen tasks, try to spread them out during the day to give yourself regular breaks. If you experience eye pain, dryness, or ongoing strain, talk to your eye doctor. They may recommend special computer glasses with certain lens designs, tints, or coatings to give your eyes the help they need.
Sources:
https://www.center4research.org/digital-screens-eye-strain-blue-light-glasses/
Computer vision syndrome | AOA