Digital Eye Strain in the Workplace: What You Should Know
March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about digital eye strain. Digital eye strain (DES) is a common problem among people who use digital devices for extended periods. It’s estimated that 50% to 90% of digital device users suffer from some form of DES. Symptoms include headaches, neck and shoulder pain, fatigue, blurry vision, dry eyes, and difficulty focusing. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent digital eye strain in the workplace. Let’s look at what causes it and how you can avoid it.
What are the causes of digital eye strain?
The primary cause of digital eye strain is prolonged exposure to blue light emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and televisions. Blue light has a shorter wavelength than other forms of light, so it scatters more easily and stimulates our eyes more intensely. Prolonged exposure to blue light can lead to a variety of physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and dry eyes.
How can I prevent digital eye strain?
The best way to prevent digital eye strain is to set limits on your device usage. Take frequent breaks throughout the day and give your eyes a rest from staring at screens for too long. You may also want to invest in an anti-glare filter for your computer monitor or laptop screen if possible. This will help reduce the amount of blue light coming into contact with your eyes.
Additionally, be sure to adjust the brightness settings on your devices so that they match the ambient lighting around you. This will help reduce the amount of glare coming off the screen when you are using your device.
Finally, make sure you are scheduling regular eye exams with your optometrist. Comprehensive eye exams will help catch any potential issues early on before they cause irreversible damage.
By following these tips and scheduling regular eye exams, you can reduce your risk of developing DES and maintain healthy vision over time. Don’t hesitate—contact us today to schedule an eye exam and start protecting your eyes from digital eye strain!
