Digital Eye Strain

It seems nearly everyone is exposed to digital eye strain as we are all spending more time in front of computers, whether that be at work on a PC, at home on a tablet or on the go on a smartphone. And then there is the kids, tablets, smartphones, e-readers, game consoles.

Symptoms include physical fatigue, decreased productivity, headaches, burning eyes, red eyes, eye twitching and a stiff neck. Here are 10 easy steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Have a routine eye exam – the most important thing you can do!

2. Use proper lighting – it is caused by excessively bright light (interior light or sunshine). Turn off fluorescent lights and use lamps.

3. Minimise glare – consider installing an anti-glare screen on your computer. If you wear glasses, purchase lenses with an anti-reflective coating

4. Upgrade your monitor

5. Adjust your computer display settings:

a. Brightness

b. Text size and contrast

c. Colour

6. Blink more often – blinking moistens your eyes to prevent dryness and irritation.

7. Exercise your eyes – 20 – 20 – 20 rule

a. Every 20 minutes look away

b. At least 20 feet away

c. For at least 20 seconds

8. Take frequent breaks – stand up, move about, stretch your arms, back, legs, neck, shoulders

9. Modify your workstation – use copy stand, adjust lamp and check your chair for proper posture

10. Consider computer eyewear – speak to your optometrists about what would be right for you.