Did you know that the average Canadian says they spend nearly 11 hours a day looking at digital screens? Between computers, smartphones, tablets, and TVs, we are surrounded by digital technology.
However, prolonged focusing on screens has led to an increase in eye strain, dubbed digital eye strain because of its association with digital devices.
Digital eye strain symptoms include:
These symptoms are similar to those of other issues, so it’s essential to see your optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam to rule out underlying problems. We can narrow down the cause of your strain and provide you with information and a complete management plan.
Research shows that spending more than 2 hours focusing on one spot can lead to eye strain, whether looking at a computer screen, driving, or reading. Untreated or undiagnosed vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, stress, or fatigue can also contribute to discomfort during demanding tasks.
Computer use tends to exacerbate eye strain because we tend to:
The easiest thing you can do to reduce your eye strain is to give your eyes a break. This rest will allow your eye muscles to relax and your eyes to refocus.
It’s easy to remember to give your eyes a break if you follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This is also an excellent chance to stand up for a moment and stretch your body or neck.
Other steps you can take to reduce digital eye strain symptoms include:
Digital eye strain doesn’t lead to any long-term complications, but if these changes haven’t helped ease symptoms, please see us for a comprehensive eye exam. We will be happy to investigate the cause of your symptoms and provide you with an effective solution!
You can find our St. George location just off Main Street, next to the Community Living Centre.
You can find our St. George location just off Main Street, next to the Community Living Centre.
Located between Grannan St and Princess St across from Trinity Royal Anglican Church.
Located between Grannan St and Princess St across from Trinity Royal Anglican Church.
I am very satisfied with the business and services of Dr. Brown and Associates. My glasses that I got were not quite right however the people at Dr. Brown’s did not hesitate to take them back and give me a new pair without any hesitation.
Dr. Brown is the most caring, compassionate, and knowledgeable optometrist there is! For many years I have trusted him, and Faye, for wonderful care at his St. George office. He has helped with many ups and downs on my vision journey (and there have been many). I would recommend Dr. Brown to anyone needing vision care.
I enjoy every aspect about being a patient here at the office of Dr. Brown and Associates. They are such a great group of people.
Everyone here is always helpful and pleasant. They take the time to discuss options and explain things. They have adjusted my glasses several times at no charge even though it was entirely my fault they got bent. When I broke my frames they were able to get me an inexpensive pair and cut down the lenses to fit. Definitely going to get a second pair here.
St. George
Saint John
