Modern Age, Modern Concerns

While digital technology has made our lives easier and more convenient, screen time for many Canadians can add up to 11 hours a day, leading to ocular side effects.

Those who spend 2 or more consecutive hours using a screen every day are more likely to experience the uncomfortable symptoms associated with digital eye strain. Fortunately, digital eye strain does not generally cause long-term complications, and some simple lifestyle changes can manage the condition.

The symptoms of eye strain are similar to symptoms of other, more serious conditions, so a comprehensive eye exam is necessary to rule out any underlying issues. At Sun Valley Eye Care, we offer comprehensive eye exams and can provide advice to help you develop more eye-friendly digital habits.

Book Now

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

Some of the most common symptoms of digital eye strain include:

Sore, tired, burning, or itching eyes
Watery or dry eyes
Blurred vision
Double vision
Headaches
Sore neck, shoulders, or back
Sensitivity to light
Difficulty concentrating
Eye fatigue

What Causes Digital Eye Strain?

Digital eye strain occurs after extended use of digital screens. Not only do digital screens make our eyes work harder to see words and images clearly, we also blink less often when concentrating on close-up tasks.

Using a computer, working with improper posture, and using screens with glare, poor contrast, or incorrect brightness for your surroundings can all contribute to the prevalence of digital eye strain.

Digital eye strain impacts people with all types of refractive errors—even those with perfect vision can experience eye strain after working on a computer all day.

How to Prevent Digital Eye Strain

One of the ways to prevent digital eye strain is to simply give the eyes a break. Our optometrists recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This short pause gives your eyes the chance to refocus, readjust, and relax.

You can also make some simple adjustments to your workspace to help reduce eye strain:

Use an anti-glare screen filter or position your screen away from bright lights.
Change the lighting in your environment to match your screen or adjust the contrast and brightness of your screen to match your environment.
Adjust your posture for proper ergonomics and ensure your desk setup is conducive to long hours of computer work.
Visit your optometrist for an eye exam. An update to your prescription or computer glasses may help reduce eye strain.

Book an Eye Exam at Sun Valley Eye Care

Anytime you experience discomfort related to vision, you should seek the opinion of an optometrist both to ensure comfort in the future and to rule out more serious conditions. During your exam, we will assess your digital habits and provide you with advice as to mitigation strategies.

Our primary goal at Sun Valley Eye Care is to ensure your eyes are healthy.

Book Now

Visit Us Today

You can easily find our practice in the same building as the South Calgary Medical Clinic. Validated, accessible parking is available in front and beside the building.