Here’s Why You Should Limit Your Screen Time

Well, you most likely use screens for plenty of daily activities. You might work on digital devices (now we have no choice but to work together online remotely), or you might use those for a bit of entertainment. But did you know this can pose serious health issues you shouldn’t overlook? The truth is that spending too much time in front of a digital device can make your eyes dry, tired, and cause vision problems. So, if you’re concerned about your eye health, this article is for you. up next, we’ve shared insights on eye strain caused by digital devices. You will discover why it is best to limit your daily screen time!

Why computer or smartphone screens cause eye strain?

We blink between 15 to 20 times a minute. And this action meant to distribute tears evenly and prevent dryness and irritation. But when we sit in front of a digital device, we blink less. As a result, this takes a toll on your eyes and favors the appearance of eye strains. The glare or flickering from digital screens can be hard on our eyes and can make us temporarily lose visual acuity.

What are the symptoms of eye strain?

If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, it is best to ask for digital advice. You might suffer from eye strains caused by prolonged exposure to digital screens.

- Sore or irritated eyes

- Trouble focusing

- Dry or watery eyes

- Blurred or double vision

- Increased sensitivity to light

- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or back

Top tips for managing eye strain caused by computers and smartphones

The first thing you need to do is start using digital screen protection glasses. Research shows that this can significantly decrease digital eye strain, fatigue, and discomfort. Besides, implementing one or more of the following tips can make your life simpler and boost vision health.

Go for a comprehensive eye exam

So, checking your eye health can offer valuable insights on how to protect your eyes from digital eye strain. Make sure you discuss with your doctor your concerns, along with how to overcome your symptoms.

Adjust lighting

Another thing you can do to decrease discomfort and vision problems is to use proper lighting. You should know that excessive bright light is the leading cause of eye strain. So, when using your laptop, tablet, or smartphone, make sure ambient lightning is half as bright. A pro tip is to place your laptop screen with the window at the side, instead of in front or behind it. 

Diminish glare

Glare from light reflecting off walls or finished surfaces, along with glare from digital devices, can lead to eye strain. So, it might be a good idea to use an anti-glare screen and paint bright white walls a darker color.

Adjust your laptop’s display settings

This can significantly improve your life, as it can diminish fatigue and eye strain. All you have to do is:

- Modify the brightness of the display. It shouldn’t look like a light source since it would be too bright. But at the same time, it shouldn’t be dull or grey, as it might be too dark

- Contrast and text size adjustments can improve comfort, especially if your writing or reading on a digital screen

- Modify the color temperature, so that it comes with less blue light

Blink more often

Blinking is essential for eye health, and it prevents dryness and fatigue. So, it might be useful for you to concentrate on blinking more often. In this way, you will diminish your discomfort, as your eyes will be shielded against irritation and dryness. 

Exercise your eyes

Experts say it is best to look away from a digital screen at least every 20 minutes and focus on a distant object for at least 20 seconds. This can contribute to eye health, and it can make you more comfortable while working on a computer.

Wear computer glasses

As for today, computer glasses are a must for everyone working on a computer (but not only!). These offer the best comfort and protect eyes from eye strain.

The bottom line

So, there are quite a few ways in which you can prevent eyestrain. But if you feel like there is something wrong with your vision, you should ask for medical advice. Spending too much time in front of a computer or smartphone can cause serious problems.