In today’s world, we spend more time than ever in front of screens—working, studying, watching, and scrolling. While digital devices offer convenience, they can also lead to a growing issue: digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome.
If you’ve experienced tired eyes, blurry vision, or frequent headaches after screen time, you’re not alone. The good news is that this condition is preventable with simple habits and regular eye care.
What is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain is a group of vision-related problems caused by prolonged screen use. It occurs when the eyes work harder to focus and adjust, especially when using devices for extended periods without breaks.
Common symptoms include:
- Tired or sore eyes
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Dry or watery eyes
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Neck or shoulder pain
What Causes It?
Some common causes of digital eye strain include:
- Extended screen time
- Poor lighting or screen glare
- Incorrect viewing distance or posture
- Reduced blinking while staring at screens
- Uncorrected vision problems
Tips to Prevent Digital Eye Strain
1. Follow the 20-20-20 rule
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax your eye muscles.
2. Blink more often
Blinking keeps your eyes moisturized. Remind yourself to blink, especially during long screen sessions.
3. Adjust your screen settings
- Use moderate brightness and contrast
- Turn on night mode or blue light filters
- Increase text size to reduce eye strain
4. Maintain proper posture and screen distance
- Position your screen at eye level and about an arm’s length away
- Sit upright with good back support
- Avoid looking down at phones or tablets for long periods
5. Reduce glare
- Use anti-glare screen filters
- Adjust lighting to prevent reflections
- Avoid facing direct light while working
6. Use artificial tears
If your eyes feel dry, lubricating drops can help. Ask your eye doctor for recommendations.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you continue to experience discomfort, headaches, or blurry vision, you may need a personalized solution. A professional eye exam can help:
- Detect underlying issues
- Provide a screen-specific glasses prescription
- Offer expert guidance on managing symptoms
Care at El-Amin Ophthalmic Center
At El-Amin Ophthalmic Center, we offer complete care for patients dealing with digital eye strain. Our expert team uses advanced diagnostics and provides personalized advice to protect your vision in today’s digital world.
📞 Call us: +251 926 16 8283
🌐 Website: www.elamineyecare.com
📍 Visit us: Amin General Hospital 7th floor
