Digital Eye Strain in San Diego

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

Digital eye strain can cause any number of symptoms, including: 

• Sore, tired, burning, or itching eyes
• Watery or dry eyes
• Blurred or double vision
• Headache
• Sore neck, shoulders, or back
• Sensitivity to light
• Difficulty concentrating
• Eye fatigue or feeling like you can’t keep your eyes open

Causes of Digital Eye Strain 

The devices themselves are only part of the cause of digital eye strain. It’s actually prolonged periods of focusing on one task without a break that causes eye strain, which can also occur when you read or drive long distances without a break. 

Eye strain is more common with digital device use because digital screens make the eyes work harder. Screen glare, poor contrast, poor posture, and uncorrected vision problems can also exacerbate symptoms. 

Preventing Digital Eye Strain

Fortunately, you can take some simple steps to help reduce your eye strain symptoms. 

Simply giving your eyes frequent breaks throughout the day can sometimes help reduce your discomfort. To remember to take a break, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. These breaks give your eyes time to relax, refocus, and readjust.

Changing your workspace can also help. Follow proper workplace ergonomics if you work at a desk, and try: 

• Reducing glare on your computer screen by using an anti-glare screen.
• Changing the lighting in your environment to reduce contrast with your computer screen.
• Adjusting your screen brightness or contrast to match your environment. 
• Correcting your computer posture to reduce strain on your neck and back.