How Richmond Hill Optometric Clinic is responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Digital Eye Strain

Name: Richmond Hill Optometric Clinic
Address: 1650 Elgin Mills Rd E #214, Richmond Hill, ON, L4S 0B2
Telephone: 905-883-1010

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Too Much Screen Time is Hard on Your Eyes

We spend a lot of our time looking at screens. Our eyes are often focused on TVs, computers, and our phones for a large portion of the day, which means our eyes can start to feel a little tired after a while.

If you find you’re eyes are dry or irritated, you may be suffering from digital eye strain. Digital eye strain is caused by a variety of factors, including harmful blue light, reduced blinking, and focusing in one place for long periods. Too much time hunched over our phones and computers is also bad for our posture and can lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain.

Digital Eye Strain Can Lead to Serious Vision Problems

Other than straining your eyes, including irritation and dryness, digital eye strain can also lead to serious long term problems if it isn’t addressed.

Some studies have shown that there may be a link between increased rates of childhood myopia and screen time. Myopia can be controlled with the help of contact lenses or prescription eyeglasses. Still, you should speak with your optometrist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

What Can You Do?

If you believe you’re experiencing digital eye strain, one of the first things you should do is speak to your optometrist. They can suggest appropriate treatments based on your unique needs.

However, you should also remember to take regular breaks. The Canadian Association of Optometrists suggests following the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and shift your gaze to something that’s at least 20 feet away from you. This gives your eyes’ focusing muscles a chance to relax.

Eyeglasses and contacts have been developed in the last few years to help minimize the amount of blue light your eyes take in. Still, depending on the seriousness of your condition, your optometrist may prescribe eye drops to help manage your digital eye strain symptoms.

Digital Eye Strain in Children

Children are exposed to more screens now than at any other point in history, so parents should be aware of the implications of screen time can have on their eyesight. By bringing your child in for regular check-ups, your optometrist can help find the best treatment for your child’s symptoms of digital eye strain.

Do you suspect that you, or your child, might be suffering from digital eye strain? Request your appointment today.