‘Tis the Season to be Stuck Inside

Today’s world of computers, smartphones and tablets probably means you spend several hours staring at digital devices. And when winter comes around, it’s the perfect time to snuggle in with digital devices – until your eyes start to feel off.  

Spending extended periods of time on screens can put a strain on your eyes and cause a host of issues – eyestrain, headaches, fatigue, burning or tired eyes, loss of focus, blurred vision, double vision, and even neck and shoulder pain. -

- Learn more about Computer Vision Syndrome, or digital eyestrain.

So, how do you deal with the potential problems associated with all that screen time? Check out this advice from doctors of optometry:

• Rest your eyes. Just follow the simple 20-20-20 rule. At least every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. 
  
  
• Increase font size. You can adjust the type size and adjust the height and angle of a computer screen. Handheld devices pose more of a problem since type is small but rather than bring that smartphone screen closer, increase the font size to make reading easier.
  
  
• Adjust brightness: Light is your friend - you can adjust the brightness on your smartphones and tablets so it’s neither too bright nor dim. You can also adjust the contrast and resolution. Try your best to avoid bright light, especially when looking at devices outdoors when the sun is shining. 
  
  
• Read lower. Just as with your computer screen, view your handheld devices below eye level. Check out the ultimate set-up, below.
  
  
• Blink. Yes, you may not even realize it, but you probably blink less when using any digital device. Remember to blink so you prevent dryness and irritation. 

- Enter the World of Blink Land, download the mobile game on Android and Apple devices.

• Eye drops. You may benefit from using eyedrops, especially if you wear contact lenses. Your doctor of optometry can prescribe the right eye drops for you.  
  
• Clean screen. Handheld devices in particular get fingerprints, dust, smears and more. Daily cleaning makes it easier to look at your handheld devices. 
  
  
• Eye exams. An annual comprehensive eye exam goes a long way in ensuring healthy vision and spotting any potential problems. Find an AOA doctor of optometry near you and schedule your comprehensive eye exam today.  

It’s a digital world and those computers, smartphones, tablets and handheld devices aren’t going anywhere, so be mindful to make sure you can keep enjoying the things you love.

Click Image to Download Infographic