Tips to Reduce Eye Strain from Prolonged Screen Use

In today’s digital world, spending hours on computers, tablets, and phones has become unavoidable for most people. However, this constant screen exposure can take a toll on your eyes, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and headaches - symptoms often associated with Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), also known as Digital Eye Strain.
 

What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer Vision Syndrome is a condition caused by prolonged use of digital screens, resulting from the eyes’ continuous effort to focus and refocus as they process moving images, changing lighting, and small text. It can affect anyone who uses digital devices for extended periods, but especially those who work in front of a computer for most of the day.
 

Common symptoms include:
 

•          Eye fatigue or soreness

•          Headaches

•          Blurred or double vision

•          Dry eyes

•          Neck and shoulder pain
 

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect your vision.
 

Tips to Reduce Digital Eye Strain

You can minimize digital eye strain with a few simple habits and adjustments to your daily routine:
 

•          Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eye muscles a chance to relax and helps reduce fatigue.

•          Adjust Your Screen Setup: Position your screen about an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level. Ensure the top of your monitor is at or just below your natural line of sight for better posture and less strain.

•          Manage Glare and Lighting: Glare from overhead lights or windows can make it harder for your eyes to focus. Use an anti-glare screen filter or reposition your monitor to minimize reflections.

•          Blink More Often: Staring at screens reduces how often you blink, leading to dryness and irritation. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently or use artificial tears if recommended by your optometrist.

•          Adjust Display Settings: Increase text size, adjust contrast, and lower brightness to levels that are comfortable for your eyes. Many devices also have “night mode” settings that reduce blue light exposure.

•          Use Proper Eyewear: If you wear prescription glasses, ensure they are updated and optimized for computer use. Specialized computer lenses or blue-light-filtering coatings can also help minimize digital strain.
 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If your symptoms persist despite making adjustments, it’s time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist can check for underlying vision issues, update your prescription, and recommend personalized solutions - including computer glasses, dry eye treatments, or vision therapy if necessary.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam at Eye Rx Today

Digital devices are part of our everyday lives, but that doesn’t mean eye discomfort has to be. By following these simple habits and seeking professional care when needed, you can protect your eyes and maintain clear, comfortable vision - even during long hours in front of a screen.
 

If you’re experiencing eye strain or discomfort from screen use, our expert team at Eye Rx can help. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam and find the relief your eyes deserve. Contact us in Washington, DC at (202) 659-2010, Chevy Chase, MD at (301) 450-8300, Arlington, VA at (703) 553-1094, Dumfries, VA at (571) 404-0188, or Aldie, VA at (703) 646-8002.