eye health

Digital Eye Strain

The digital age has changed the way we work, learn, shop, socialise and relax. We are now spending significantly more time looking at electronic devices. Extended periods of time using digital devices can cause digital eye strain.

1 What is digital eye strain?

What is digital eye strain?

Digital Eye Strain is the physical eye discomfort felt by as many as 65% of individuals after two or more hours in front of a digital screen. Those using two or more devices simultaneously are at higher risk.

2 What are the signs of digital eye strain?

What are the signs of digital eye strain?

Eye strain/fatigue


Dry, itchy, burning or red eyes


Blurred vision


Headaches


Glare


Poor concentration

3 Why does it occur?

Why does it occur?

Our eyes are focusing more intensively, switching frequently between devices and adjusting to increasingly smaller, pixelated characters and bright, glowing screens.

Digital devices are backlit and emit blue-violet light that can cause strain and discomfort and is linked to disrupted sleeping patterns.

A new reading zone in ultra near vision has evolved with the smartphone, placing even greater demands on our eyes.

The normal blinking rate is often reduced from 17 or more blinks a minute to 12 to 15 blinks, reducing tear production, making your eyes feel dry and uncomfortable.

Our posture has changed as we lean toward our screens and/or slouch in our chairs, putting a strain on the neck and back.

Tips to reduce digital eye strain

Take frequent breaks from devices

PuzzlePiece

Remember to blink often

EyeClosed

Make sure devices are not held too close to the face

Desktop

Reduce exposure to blue-light emitting devices in the evenings, at least 2 hours before bedtime

Bed

Alternate periods of intense screen viewing with periods of outdoor activity that requires distance vision

Timer

Eyewear designed for a digital life

Innovative lens technology is available to help alleviate digital eye strain by eliminating glare and preventing vision fatigue by providing clear viewing at a typical screen viewing distance.