If you spend a lot of time looking at screens—computers, smartphones, tablets, and televisions—digital eyestrain is likely a common complaint. It refers to the irritation and discomfort you experience after looking at a screen for two hours or longer and is caused by a multitude of factors, including the bluish light emitted by screens and pixelated images that force your eyes to work hard to focus. Unfortunately, it’s often worse when you wear glasses or contacts. But eyestrain can be prevented or reduced with a few adjustments to how you interact with screens. 

How to Prevent Eyestrain When Using Digital Devices 

1. Maintain Proper Distance 

Looking at a computer screen that’s too close or far away causes eyestrain. Ideally, screens should be 20 to 40 inches, or an arm’s length, away from you. Position your computer so you can place your palm on the screen without bending your arm. Hold your smartphone below eye level, just far enough away so that you can read the screen. 

2. Invest in Computer Glasses

Computer glasses are specially designed to reduce eyestrain and eye damage from using digital devices. Depending on the type you purchase, they may have some combination of modified lens power to relax your eyes while improving the field of vision, glare reduction, and light-blocking abilities. 

3. Take a Break

Blinking helps eyes refocus and keeps them from becoming dry, but you should also take breaks. Try the 20-20-20 method: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. If you wear glasses, remove them for a few seconds to help relax your eyes. 

4. Adjust Your Screen

Keep your screen dust-free. It helps you see it more clearly. Set backgrounds to a soft gray instead of white to help control glare, and increase the text size to make the screen easier to read.

5. Dim the Lights

Your screen should be the brightest object in the room, so dim room lights and use blinds or curtains to reduce the sun’s glare.

If you’re experiencing signs of digital eyestrain or other vision difficulties, Jeffery Foreman O.D. in Fort Dodge, IA, can help. These eye care professionals have more than 30 years of experience with eye exams, contacts, and treatments for cataracts and glaucoma. They have a wide selection of glasses and contact lenses. To learn more about their practice, visit them online, or schedule an appointment today by calling (515) 955-7777.