We spend more time staring at our tablets, mobile phones, work computers and digital screens now more than ever. The idea that the light from digital screens damages the eyes has persisted for a long time. Nonetheless, little evidence exists to suggest that screen light from the computer or television causes damage to the eye. The complaints about eye fatigue and discomfort are attributed to what is called Computer Vision Syndrome.
Computer Vision Syndrome presents the following symptoms
- Head aches
- Dry and red eyes
- Eye irritation
- Blurred vision
- Neck or back pain
The symptoms presented mainly affect a person’s mood and work performance if left untreated. They occur due to the eye strain that the eye undergoes as it continuously glares at the TV or mobile phone screen.
As your eyes shift over the different parts of the screen, observing and reading, they reduce the amount of blinking. Blinking prevents dryness of the eyes. Therefore, working on the computer for long hours of the day may result in dry, strained and irritated eyes.
However, TV, computer and mobile phone screens do not give off harmful rays like UV rays or X-rays. The screens expose the eye to blue light which is not harmful compared to exposure to the UV rays of the sun.
It is important to note that if you have a pre-existent eye condition, such as a refractive error, the condition may be exacerbated by prolonged exposure to the screen.
It is important to consult with a qualified ophthalmologist to ensure that the computer vision syndrome is just that, and not an eye disorder.
If you occasionally experience eye strain or computer vision syndrome, the following are potential solutions
- Get an eye test here (link to eye modes website)
- Take a break from the screen every 20 minutes
- Adjust the screen light to reduce glare
- Adjust the position of your screen and make it 20 to 26 inches away from your eyes and a little below your eye level
- Get a pair of anti-reflective lenses
