It is no secret we live in a digital age. Our screens have become everyday tools. They help you at work, entertain you, and help you communicate. Our devices are helpful in our everyday life. However, long periods of screen time can take a toll on your eyes. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this leads to a condition known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include eye discomfort, dryness, blurred vision, headaches, and neck/shoulder pain. Fear not though, because with a few simple changes you can do to help protect your vision. Let's take a look at some strategies recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Optometric Association to manage digital eye strain and keep your eyes healthy.

1. 20-20-20 rule: Follow the 20-20-20 rule. This rule is made to give your eyes a break from constant screen glare. Every 20 minutes try and take a 20-second break. Focus your gaze on something at least 20 feet away. This simple practice helps lower eye strain. It also helps prevent your eyes from getting too tired. Adding regular breaks into your screen time gives your eyes a chance to rest and recover.
2. Adjust screen settings: Change the brightness, contrast, and font size on your devices. This helps create a comfortable viewing experience. Changing these settings can lower the glare and make it easier to read text.
3. Position your screen properly: Move your screen so that it is about an arm's length away from your eyes. As well as slightly below eye level. This setup cuts down the strain on your eyes, neck, and shoulders. This helps for better posture and comfort during lengthy periods of screen use when sitting.
4. Proper lighting: Make sure that your workspace has good lighting. Avoid glare from overhead lights or windows. Move your screen to lower the glare. You can also use a glare filter. This further reduces reflections. Lastly, lower the brightness of your screen to match the lighting in the room.
5. Blink often: Blinking helps moisten and refresh your eyes. This reduces dryness and irritation that is caused by long periods of screen use. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently, especially when staring at screens for an extended time.
6. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This helps keep moisture levels in your eyes, reducing dryness and discomfort. Keep a water bottle nearby and take sips regularly to stay hydrated and support overall eye health and overall health.
7. Try blue light filters: The blue light that comes off of screens can cause headaches and eye strain. If using your devices before bed it can also disrupt your sleep pattern. To avoid this try and use blue light-blocking glasses or screen protectors. This lowers your exposure to the harmful blue light.

8. Regular eye exams: Make regular eye exams with an optometrist to monitor your eye health. Use this time to check your eye health and address any underlying issues. Your doctor can give tailored advice. As well as plans to ease digital eye strain and ensure optimal vision.

   
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   Add these tips into your daily routine to manage digital eye strain. Take proactive measures. That way you hold the power to safeguard your eyes from the potentially harmful effects connected with excessive screen usage. Your eye health should be a top priority. Since it directly impacts your overall well-being and quality of life in our technology-driven society. Make an appointment with one of our dedicated optometrists at Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. Here, we can give you comprehensive eye care services that are tailored to your needs. Visit us today and take the first step towards a clearer future!