Reducing Digital Eye Strain | Chestermere Optometry

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With the prevalence of smartphones, tablets, and computers in our daily lives, many individuals suffer from digital eye strain. You’ve probably been there: working away at your computer, feeling tired, and trying to ignore the compulsive need to rub your eyes.

Digital eye strain is an irritating condition that causes discomfort and fatigue in the visual centres after spending 2 hours or more focusing on digital screens. The key to overcoming digital eye strain includes preventative measures to keep symptoms from persisting.

At Chestermere Optometry, we offer various methods to help reduce digital eye strain in our patients. If you suffer from tired and weary eyes, we have the relief you’re seeking!

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Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

When looking at something close-up, the focusing muscles in and around your eyes work hard to ensure the image stays clear and sharp. Tasks like reading, up-close work, and working on digital screens cause your eyes to focus for extended periods, resulting in strained eyes.

Digital eye strain occurs after working on a digital screen for over 2 consecutive hours. This condition is also known as computer vision syndrome.

Symptoms of digital eye strain may include:

Eyestrain
Headaches
Blurry vision
Sore shoulders, upper back and neck
Dry eyes

Proactive Preventative Care

You can take steps at your home or office to prevent (or reduce) problems arising from digital eye strain. Here are a few of Chestermere Optometry’s tips and tricks for better eye health:

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and shift your gaze to an object at least 20 feet away from you.
Wear computer glasses: These specialized glasses are designed to:
- Reduce glare
- Focus at an optimal distance (further than reading vision, shorter than long-distance vision)
Use ambient lighting: Using soft, diffused light behind your monitor requires less effort from your eyes to focus. In your home or office, try limiting harsh lighting and glare.
Resting Point of Accommodation: The ideal distance for your monitor should be around 40–74 cms from your eyes, and this distance will help your eyes focus more easily.
Have regular eye exams: Your overall eye health benefits from routine comprehensive eye exams.

If you follow these tips and don’t notice a significant difference in your symptoms, contact us to book an eye exam. Your optometrist can help determine the cause of your discomfort and provide appropriate recommendations for treatment.