Children today have more digital tools at their disposal than ever before—tablets, smartphones, e-readers, hand-held videogames and computers. What ever happened to playing outside? Somehow Angry Birds usurped hide-and-seek because, according to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children and teenagers (ages 8-18) are spending more than 7.5 hours a day consuming electronic media. This overuse can cause digital eye strain, a medical issue with serious symptoms that can affect learning and work productivity. Symptoms of digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome, include blurry vision, difficulty focusing, dry and irritated eyes, headaches, neck pain and back pain. Digital eye strain is now the number one computer-related complaint in the United States—ahead of carpal-tunnel syndrome.
VSP EyeFiles Season 2 continues with Dr. Liddicoat’s recommendations for avoiding digital eye strain, which include:
- Getting annual comprehensive eye exams: make sure your eyes are healthy and can see properly without squinting.
- Following the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Ensuring proper lighting: reduce bright light and position devices to reduce reflections and glare.
- Limiting device use: watch for squinting and eye rubbing as this indicates overuse
- Establishing proper working distance: use the distance from your elbow to your knuckle—about 18”.
- Going outside: daily outdoor play can reduce the risk of nearsightedness.
For more information on these tips, be sure to watch VSP Eyefiles episode below and check out the EyeFiles Tab.
[...] to four times a day, will help with the previously mentioned issues.”VSP optometrist, Dr. Leanne Liddicoat, also recommends the 20/20/20 rule, along with the following strategies:Ensure proper [...]