Digital eyestrain (DES), or computer vision syndrome, encompassses a range of symptoms as a result of our increasingly prolonged use of digital electronic devices. Looking at any electronic digital device (such as a computer, smartphone or tablet) for lengthy periods of time can have negative effects on your vision and well-being.
Anyone who has spent a few hours on the computer has probably felt some of the effects. Now, more than ever, it is vital that we remain mindful of our screen time. Studies show that negative effects on eye health accompany increased smartphone usage.
There are a number of factors that determine the amount of strain your body feels as you work on a computer or other digital device, including lighting in the room, distance from the screen, glare on the screen, seating posture and the angle of your head—not to mention any existing vision problems you may have.
One or all these factors may combine to cause an uncomfortable amount of strain on your eyes and body.
Digital eyestrain (DES), or computer vision syndrome, encompassses a range of symptoms as a result of our increasingly prolonged use of digital electronic devices. Looking at any electronic digital device (such as a computer, smartphone or tablet) for lengthy periods of time can have negative effects on your vision and well-being.
Anyone who has spent a few hours on the computer has probably felt some of the effects. Now, more than ever, it is vital that we remain mindful of our screen time. Studies show that negative effects on eye health accompany increased smartphone usage.
There are a number of factors that determine the amount of strain your body feels as you work on a computer or other digital device, including lighting in the room, distance from the screen, glare on the screen, seating posture and the angle of your head—not to mention any existing vision problems you may have.
One or all these factors may combine to cause an uncomfortable amount of strain on your eyes and body.
These symptoms may be caused or made worse by other factors, such as uncorrected vision needs, glare, poor lighting and improper posture.
With these simple practices, you can reduce the effects of computer vision syndrome:
Evidence suggests that blue light affects the body’s circadian rhythm, so while it may not directly disturb your ocular health, it’s best to avoid screens for a couple hours before bedtime. Using “dark” or “night mode” in the evening can also help. A good night’s sleep is beneficial to the eyes.
Use computer glasses, which are NOT the same as blue light blocking glasses. Computer glasses must be prescribed by an eye doctor. They allow you to focus your eyes specifically at computer screen distance (20-26 inches from the face).
There is little evidence at this time to support the use of blue-blocking filters as a clinical treatment for DES. Management of other ocular factors, as well as the creation of an optimal environment for screen viewing, are more likely to provide greater success in minimizing symptoms.
If prolonged hours with electronic devices is unavoidable, you may also want to purchase a matte filter for your computer or phone to reduce the amount of glare. Reduced glare is better for your ocular health.
Most symptoms caused by electronic device use are only temporary and will lessen if you stop using the devices. If adhering to these tips doesn’t help, contact your eye doctor.
Spending more time on digital devices may mean you are less satisfied with your contact lenses. Frequent use of a smartphone, tablet or computer may cause you to blink less, which could contribute to your contact lenses drying out.
Biotrue® Multi-Purpose Solution and Biotrue® Hydration Plus Multi-Purpose Solution provide exceptional cleaning, disinfection and up to 20 hours of moisture.*
Biotrue® Multi-Purpose Solution and Biotrue® Hydration Plus Multi-Purpose Solution provide exceptional cleaning, disinfection and up to 20 hours of moisture.*
Bausch + Lomb INFUSE® daily disposable contact lenses maintain 96% of their moisture for a full 16 hours* and are comfortable when working for long hours at a computer.†
Bausch + Lomb INFUSE® daily disposable contact lenses maintain 96% of their moisture for a full 16 hours* and are comfortable when working for long hours at a computer.†
*Based on a laboratory study.
†Results from a 36-investigator multi-site study of Bausch + Lomb kalifilcon A contact lenses, on 398 current silicone hydrogel lens wearers. After 7 days of wear, subjects completed an online survey that rated performance across a range of attributes. Performance was rated using a 6-point agreed/disagreed scale.
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