November-19: Health
- Posted by CERC India
- Posted in monthly, November-2019
Eyes fatigued due to digital devices? Follow our adviceÂ
These steps will help you ease the strain on your eyes brought on by incessant use of digital devicesÂ
In the digital age that we live in, we are always staring at some screen. Whether it is a laptop for work or entertainment, your smartphone or the television. Experts warn that too much screen time may not only lead to obesity, stress, aggression and social isolation, but also damage vision, which is known as Computer Vision Syndrome(CVS).
NUTSHELL
- Spending long hours staring at some or the other digital screen strains the eye
- Take frequent short breaks and adjust the screen settings to have minimum effect on the eyes
- Get complete eye check-up done annually
What is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer Vision Syndrome, also referred to as Digital Eye Strain, describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and cell phone use. Studies indicate that 50 to 90 percent of computer users suffer from visual symptoms of computer vision syndrome. These symptoms include eye strain, dry eyes, eye irritation, blurred vision, double vision and neck and shoulder pain. Spending long hours staring at some or the other digital screen is the main reason for these besides poor lighting, glare on a digital screen, improper viewing distances, poor posture and other vision problems.
The size of the screen that you use is also an important factor because smaller the screen, the closer you are likely to hold it.Â
How to treat CVS?Â
Of course the best way is to reduce the usage of digital devices to as less as possible. Since that may not be possible, here are few changes that you should make in the way you use these devices.
- Correct the lighting: Ensure that the room is well lit. Also remember that too much brightness can cast glare on the screen, which strains the eye. You may also use anti-glare glasses.
- Setting on your screen: Adjust the text size and contrast on your screens according to your eyes comfort. Most devices also come with auto adjust settings that change the brightness of the screen according to the surrounding light.Â
- Maintain good posture: Since posture and distance are major factors that affect CVS, make it a habit to maintain proper distance between you and the screen. The best position for your monitor is slightly below eye level, about 20 to 28 inches away from your face.Â
- Annual eye examination: It is easier to treat any problem when detected early. Sometimes there may not be any symptoms or you may not have noticed them. Regular eye check-up will let you know if there are any corrective steps to be taken
- Resolution: Use high resolutions settings on all your devices. A higher resolution produces sharper type and crisper images, reducing eye strain.
- Rule of 20-20-20: Apply the 20-20-20 rule. After every 20 minutes of working on a screen, look at something which is 20 meter away from you for 20 seconds.
- Take breaks: When you are glued to a screen, you also tend to be sitting at the same spot for long hours. Take frequent, short breaks and walk around. This will not only relax your eyes but also help you stretch your body.Â
- Blink: Another side effect of staring at digital screens is that you blink less. This is why the eyes become dry and feel sore. Keep blinking your eyes more often, though it may require you to make conscious effort. Rub your hands together to create friction and warmth, then gently cup your palms over your closed eyes and rest them.
- Eye drops: Ask your doctor for eye drops that you can use to keep your eyes lubricated. These eye drops contain artificial tears that help flush the eyes out and make you more comfortable instantly.
- Take your vitamins: Adequate amount of vitamins and minerals such vitamins A, C and E with a B complex and Zinc is important for overall eye health. Include foods rich in these vitamins and minerals in your daily diet. If required, you may also take some supplements after consulting your doctor.
Source:Â https://www.myupchar.com, https://www.aoa.org/, https://www.webmd.com/, https://www.allaboutvision.com/
