Protect Your Vision from High-Tech Holiday Gifts

Cell phones, tablets, laptops, smart watches, and video games are typically at the top of the holiday shopping list. While these high-tech devices make for great gifts, prolonged screen time can also put users at risk for computer vision syndrome, digital eye strain and other vision problems.

Many of the vision issues that arise from increased screen time stem from blue light, which is high-energy, high-frequency light. Due to its higher frequency, blue light penetrates deeper into the eye, which can have damaging effects on the retina (light sensitive portion of the eye).

Blue light gets emitted from LED lighting which is built-in to televisions, computers and other electronic devices. Common symptoms from prolonged screen exposure can include: eyestrain, light sensitivity (photophobia), blurred or double vision, dry, burning, or irritated eyes. 

Many of these symptoms are temporary however, some people may experience continued problems - even after not using a screen. It’s important to take precaution to prevent further and perhaps more permanent eye damage.

Here are some helpful ways to protect your eyes from high-tech holiday gifts:

• Use the 20-20-20 rule: Taking a break from looking at a screen can make a world of a difference. Optometrists recommend looking away from the screen every 20 minutes and staring at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Change your screen settings: Change the brightness and contrast on your smartphone or computer screen to a more comfortable level. There are also blue light filter settings available that adjusts the “color temperature” of the display screen to a warmer color which reduces the amount of blue light exposure.
• Adjust your seating: When using a computer or playing video games, be sure to adjust your chair to a comfortable height. The screen should be positioned at a downward 10 to 20 degree angle and located at an approximate viewing distance of 24 inches.
• Specialty prescription eyewear: Blue light blocking lenses are designed to reduce eye fatigue from blue light and reduce glare. They are available for people who wear glasses and for those who do not.  

The Eye Institute (TEI) offers a variety of services to treat adults and children experiencing symptoms of computer vision syndrome, digital eye strain and other visual concerns including comprehensive eye exams, specialty eyewear solutions, and vision therapy. To schedule an appointment at TEI, call 215.276.6111.