Did you know one-third of adults spend most of their waking hours on digital devices? Specifically,
- 25% of Baby Boomers (1946-1964) spend at least 9 hours on digital devices each day
- 33% of GenXers (1965-1980) spend at least 9 hours on digital devices each day
- 40% of Millenials (1981-1996) spend at least 9 hours on digital devices each day
Digital Eye Strain (DES), also referred to as Computer Vision Syndrome, describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged use of digital devices (computer, tablet, e-reader, mobile device, gaming systems, etc.). Over one-third of the adults who experience digital eye strain don't do anything to alleviate their symptoms.
The most common symptoms associated with DES are:
- Headaches
- Dry eyes
- Eye strain
- Blurred vision
- Neck and/or shoulder pain
These symptoms may be caused by:
- glare from digital device
- improper/poor lighting
- reduced blinking
- improper viewing distance
- text on digital device
- poor seating posture
- uncorrected refractive errors
- blue light emitted from digital devices
- any combination of above
For more information, these two resources provide much more education and insight on DES:
- The Vision Council 2015 Digital Eye Strain Report
- The Vision Council 2016 Digital Eye Strain Report
- Computer Vision Syndrome - AOA Facts
Michiana Eye Center doctors recommend practicing the "20/20/20/20 Rule" to reduce DES symptoms:
- 20 After 20 minutes of computer use
- 20 Look away for at least 20 seconds
- 20 At an object at least 20 feet away in distance
- 20 Blinking 20 times
In addition to the 20/20/20/20 rule, our doctors may recommend any combination of the following solutions:
1) Anti-Reflective coatings to reduce glare from digital devices and overhead lighting
2) Blue-light blocking lenses, such as TotalBlue, which selectively absorb harmful high energy blue light, protecting your cornea and retina. Recent studies have shown the connection between blue light and macular degeneration, and interruptions to our body's circadian rhythm, inhibiting restful sleep.
3) Computer lenses for optimizing visual acuity for intermediate and near distances. Kodak SoftWear lenses are Michana Eye Center's computer lenses of choice.