Another long day at your job and it’s not even noon! But your eyes feel like they are going to pop right out of your head.
Sound familiar?
You’re probably experiencing digital eye strain. Screen time affects your eyes more than you think.
But what can you do? You have to spend long hours looking at digital screens; it’s part of your job.
Never fear! Klingensmith’s is here! You need solutions, and we have them. Maybe solutions that you hadn’t even thought of. Really! You are going to be pleasantly surprised.
So, keep reading. Give us three minutes, and we will provide you with several ways to prevent digital eye strain. Actionable tips and tools you can use for the rest of your life!
Here’s to quick relief for eye fatigue from screens. Let’s get you back to feeling good again!
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain is also known as Computer Vision Syndrome. It is a group of vision and eye problems that make you feel tired and uncomfortable.
Or, if you want the technical explanation, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines digital eye strain like this:
“Digital eye strain is a group of eye and vision problems. The problems can include eyes that itch and tear, and are dry and red.”
Interesting Statistics
According to Optometrists.org:
More than 50% of people experience digital eye strain (including children).
80% of Americans use digital devices for more than two hours each day.
67% of people use two or more devices simultaneously.
Almost seven in ten people report experiencing the symptoms of digital eye strain.
What Causes Digital Eye Strain?
Eye fatigue from screens is caused by poor lighting, screen glare, improper viewing distance, poor posture, and, believe it or not, less blinking while looking at your screen.
Common Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
Here are several telltale signs that you might have digital eye strain.
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Tired eyes (occurring after long screen times)
Screen Time and Eye Health
When you neglect your eye health, increased digital screen time becomes more serious. It can lead to long-term vision problems like macular degeneration, nearsightedness, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. Therefore, you should see your eye doctor regularly and routinely follow all eye health recommendations they make.
How to Protect Yourself from Digital Eye Strain
There are a few simple things you can do to help avoid digital eye strain. Try closing your window blinds. Don’t put your computer monitor directly in front of the window. Avoid white walls. Adjust your monitor so it’s directly in front of you, and position it at least an arm’s length away. Also, make sure the top of the screen is at or just slightly below eye level. And always use proper lighting.
HOT TIP: The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that adjusting your screen’s brightness to match the level of light around you will help with digital eye strain. You can also try increasing the contrast.
The 20-20-20 Rule (this will be life-changing for you, guaranteed!)
OK, pay attention! This is important! But it’s not difficult, so don’t worry about that.
Here is the 20-20-20 Rule:
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
Yep, that’s it! Simple! And it will give your eyes a much-needed break.
Now, let’s move on to some of the tools and tips you can use to help prevent digital eye strain.
Tools for Preventing Digital Eye Strain
We know how busy you are. However, just one quick trip to any of the Klingensmith’s Drug Stores is all it takes to get some tools to help alleviate much (if not all) of your digital eye strain.
Here is what you will need from Klingensmith’s:
Blue Light Glasses
Blue light glasses will help reduce your eye strain, improve sleep, reduce light sensitivity, provide long-term eye protection, and enhance your visual comfort. They work by filtering out the blue light emitted by your digital screen. There are plenty of affordable blue light glasses options out there. However, they aren’t a cure-all. You will still need to follow healthy eye habits like using the 20-20-20 Rule, etc.
Screen Filters
Digital screen filters use a surface coating or special material that is designed to scatter and diffuse light. They keep the light from reflecting back towards your eyes. Screen filters also help minimize reflections and bright spots, which will make it easier for you to see them in bright environments.
Humidifiers
Using a humidifier helps increase the moisture in the air, which, in turn, helps slow down the evaporation of your eyes’ tears. Moist air will also help maintain the natural lubrication of your eye, resulting in improved tear film stability. It’s extremely important to keep your eyes (and your body, for that matter) hydrated.
Keep reading to learn more about the best ways to hydrate your eyes.
How to Hydrate and Soothe Your Eyes
Now, here are some tips for soothing and protecting your eyes (and yes, you can get these at any of the Klingensmith’s Drug Stores as well).
Similasan iVIZIA Dry Eye Night Gel
Consider trying some Similasan iVIZIA Dry Eye Night Gel. It’s scientifically formulated to relieve dryness, strain, and discomfort from dry, overworked eyes. iVIZIA is a thick gel that will provide more lubrication and more moisture than the daytime formula. It works by revitalizing your hyaluronic acid and trehalose.
Refresh Liquigel (eye drops)
Another product that will help keep your eyes hydrated and give you some temporary relief is Refresh Liquigel eye drops. Refresh Liquigel is an eye lubricant that helps relieve the burning, itching, and discomfort from dry eyes. Refresh Liquigel is sometimes referred to as artificial tears.
NEED HELP? If you need some help or a little more information, don’t hesitate to ask one of Klingensmith’s pharmacists for assistance. They are always happy to help!
What’s Next?
If you want to protect your eyes from digital burnout, you need to create an eye-friendly environment where you work. And there’s no better time than now, during Healthy Vision Month. So, invest in the tools needed to protect your eye health. All Klingensmith’s Drug Stores have affordable blue light glasses and other tools and soothing products that will make protecting your eyes much easier. Protecting your eyes from digital eye strain is an investment in the future. A future that will look a whole lot brighter if you have healthy eyes.
Visit one of your Western Pennsylvania Klingensmith’s Drug Stores today! We look forward to seeing you!
