Left to Our Own Devices
We’re all guilty of spending too much time on our devices.
Whether you’re working on the computer all day, binging your favourite Netflix show, or just scrolling through your phone, screens take up a lot of our time. It’s important to protect your eyes from digital eye strain.
Studies show that approximately 50% of computer users suffer from digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome). Don’t worry, we’re not saying you need to get rid of your devices. But you can mitigate the effects of digital eye strain so you’re more comfortable.
We’re here to help. Book a consultation with us today.
Understanding Digital Eye Strain
Symptoms of digital eye strain may include:
- Headaches
- Neck & back pain
- Fatigue
- Difficulty keeping eyes open
- Dryness
- Periods of excessive tears
- Itching, burning, or stinging eyes
- Blurry vision
- Poor concentration
Research is still being conducted around the effects of our screens on our eyes, but some experts believe that digital eye strain can be caused by:
- Blue light
LCD screens (i.e. computers, smartphones, tablets) emit a specific frequency of light called blue light. Blue light scatters more than most types of visible light, which makes it harder for your eye to focus and interpret.
Some researchers believe that since blue light requires our eyes to work harder to focus, it’s a major contributing factor to digital eye strain.
- Reading distance
Near work (focusing on something close-up) is difficult for our eyes to maintain.
The ideal reading distance is approximately 16 inches or 40 centimetres away from your face. However, the average user holds their smartphone approximately 13 inches or 32 centimetres away from their face when reading a web page. Some researchers believe that digital eye strain develops as a result of excessive near work and holding our devices far too close.
Work & Watch Comfortably
You can combat digital eye strain a few different ways. It’s important to discuss your symptoms with your optometrist in order to get the best possible treatment for you and your vision.
Blue Light Glasses
Even if you don’t need glasses, blue light glasses (or computer glasses) may help alleviate symptoms of digital eye strain.
Blue light glasses have a protective coating on the lens to reduce glare, improve contrast, and filter out blue light. You can get prescription or non-prescription blue light glasses to relieve some stress on your eyes.
While some conjecture remains on the effectiveness of blue-light glasses, there is evidence to suggest these glasses could reduce digital eye strain symptoms.
Office Ergonomics
Setting up an eye-friendly workstation can help reduce your digital eye strain symptoms and improve your overall wellness..
Here are a few tips to make your office setup more user-friendly:
- Set your monitor up just below eye level at an arm’s length from your face
- Lower the brightness of your screen so it’s not brighter than the light in your room or office
- Adjust your chair so your feet are flat on the ground & your arms aren’t too elevated
The 20/20/20 Rule
Remember to take breaks! The 20/20/20 rule is an easy way to remind you.
Every 20 minutes, stare at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s like stretching your legs, but for your eyes.
See Your Optometrist
We’re here to help you see clearly and comfortably no matter what. Contact us today to see what treatments are available to address your digital eye strain.
Our Location
Visit Us
We’re located right on 15th St. E. with plenty of parking right outside the building for your convenience every time you visit us.
- Phone: 306.763.3937
- Fax: 306.763.2023
- 298 15th St. E.
- Prince Albert, SK S6V 1G2
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Getting Access to Quality Eye Care
Your vision is a gift, and you need to take care of it. Here at Northern Lights Eyecare, we believe access to eye care is essential to your quality of life. To make our care more accessible, we’re proud to work with insurance providers to provide direct billing. That way, you and your family can spend more time experiencing life and less time worrying about payments.
Our Brands
Comfort and quality meet when considering our frames and lens brands. From stylish looks to frames built for utility, your lifestyle plays a significant role in deciding which eyeglasses are right for you. Our team is trained to help you find the exact right frames to suit your distinct personality and daily needs while remaining comfortable and long-lasting.
