If you spend hours and hours on your cell phone, computer or tablet, you could very well have a “screen addiction.” Too much time on your mobile devices can cause vision problems. If your job requires that you sit in front of your computer all day, your eyes will eventually feel the strain. You can monitor your eye health and vision by scheduling routine eye exams at Vision Source Castle Hills. Screen addiction can lead to the following eye conditions and diseases.
Digital Eye Strain
If your eyes constantly feel irritated, itchy or fatigued after spending hours on your computer, you could be suffering from digital eye strain. Red eyes, headaches, and dry eye are additional symptoms of this condition. Digital eye strain can be attributed to overexposure to “blue light” from your digital devices.
Dry Eye
Screen addiction can also lead to dry eye, a condition where your eyes do not produce enough tears to keep them lubricated. Blinking is one way your eyes produce tears. Most people blink less than normal when using digital devices, which can cause their eyes to become irritated and dry.
Dry eye can cause eye strain, blurred vision, headaches, and stress. Your eyes may burn, itch or feel irritated all the time. OTC eye drops can help alleviate these symptoms. Reducing your screen time or taking regular breaks from your digital device can help prevent this condition.
How to Protect Your Vision from Screen Addiction
If you value your vision, you’ll do your part to protect your eyes from screen addiction. When possible, limit your time on the computer. Take breaks throughout the day to give your eyes a rest. When at your computer, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, focus your eyes on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. You should also make a concerted effort to blink more often when using your digital devices to avoid dry eye problems.
See Your Optometrist at Vision Source Castle Hills
If you’re having problems with your vision, call 210-344-1400 to schedule an eye exam at Vision Source Castle Hills today.