Nowadays most of us spend a lot of time on computers, smartphones and tablets. Due to this, there is a lot of stress on our eyes and this problem is called digital eye strain. Digital eye strain affects not only the eyes but also our mental health. This increases the risk of stress and depression. Let us know what is digital eye strain, what are its symptoms and how to avoid it.
What is digital eye strain?
Digital eye strain occurs when we work or look at the screen for a long time. This causes our eyes to get tired, start to ache and have trouble seeing. This problem has become very common now because a large part of our lives has become dependent on digital devices.
Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain
- Eye pain: Working on screen for long hours causes pain and irritation in the eyes.
- Blurred vision: Sometimes things start appearing blurry due to continuous viewing of the screen.
- Headache: Too much strain on the eyes can also cause headache.
- Dry eyes: While looking at the computer or mobile screen, the eyelids blink less, which causes the eyes to dry.
- Shoulder and neck pain: Watching the screen while sitting in the wrong posture causes pain in the shoulders and neck.
Stress and depression caused by digital eye strain
The physical pain caused by digital eye strain can also affect mental health. Constant eye pain and headaches can make you irritable and feel stressed. Such stress over a long period of time can cause depression. When you are unable to work or rest properly, it increases mental pressure and also reduces your ability to work.
Ways to avoid digital eye strain
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives rest to the eyes.
- Blink your eyes: Blink your eyes frequently while looking at a screen to prevent them from drying out.
- Sit at the right distance: Maintain proper distance between the screen and the eyes. Sit at least 25 inches away from the computer screen.
- Take breaks: Avoid looking at the screen continuously for a long time. Take small breaks in between.
- Take care of lighting: Keep the room well-lit so that the glare of the screen doesn’t put too much strain on the eyes.
- Sit in the right posture: Sit in the right posture while using a computer or mobile. Keep your neck and shoulders straight.
- Use blue light filter: Use blue light filter to reduce the blue light emitted from the screen.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.
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