Combatting the Effects of Digital Eye Strain
Spending long hours in front of screens can lead to digital eye strain, a common condition that can cause tired or dry eyes. When looking at digital devices, we blink less, which disrupts tear production and distribution. Digital eye strain can cause symptoms like:
- Soreness
- Dryness
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty focusing
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Overly watery or teary eyes
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, come for an eye exam. We may recommend blue light glasses, artificial tears, or another solution.
But your eyes are unique, so we’d like to see you before we give you a recommendation. Schedule a visit with us today!
The 20/20/20 Rule
A simple way to reduce digital eye strain is by following the 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. If you’re indoors, look out the window or into another room.
This allows your eyes to relax and refocus, reducing fatigue and discomfort. Blinking frequently and adjusting the screen brightness can also help keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.
What Causes Digital Eye Strain?
Several factors contribute to digital eye strain. We spend many hours in front of screens, and limiting our screen time can be helpful. If that isn’t possible, taking breaks throughout the day becomes essential.
Uncorrected refractive errors, such as nearsightedness or astigmatism, can make screen time more challenging. Glasses or contacts that aren’t suited for near work can also lead to strain as the eyes work harder to maintain focus.
Poor workspace ergonomics, including improper screen height or lighting, can add to discomfort. Addressing these factors can make a significant difference in visual comfort.
How We Can Help
An eye exam can identify whether the digital eye strain you’re experiencing is linked to an uncorrected prescription, dry eye, or other vision-related issue. Specialized lenses, such as blue light filtering or anti-fatigue glasses, can improve comfort.
Our optometrists can also provide personalized recommendations for screen use, lighting adjustments, and workstation setup to reduce strain. By addressing the root causes, we can help you maintain clear, comfortable vision throughout the day.
Managing Your Digital Eye Strain
Contact us to learn about how to ease symptoms of digital eye strain. Whether you need to update your prescription, explore lens options, or adjust your workspace, we can help. Book an eye exam with us today!
Come Visit Us
Where to Park
Our office is conveniently located on College Ave West, next to the Guelph Campus Co-operative and across from the OVC Small Animal Clinic. We offer plenty of parking right in front of our clinic. To access our lot, turn onto Borden St., drive behind the building, and circle around to park in front!
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- 21 College Ave West
- Guelph, ON N1G 1R7
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- Phone: 519-822-2710
- Fax: 519-822-7877
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Clarity Optometry & Vision Care
- 21 College Ave West
- Guelph, ON N1G 1R7
- Phone: 519-822-2710
- Fax: 519-822-7877
