Digital Eye Strain | OPT Optometric

Ease Eye Strain at OPT

Eye strain is an age-old problem that arises from close-up work that demands focus from your eyes. The shift towards a more digital society certainly isn’t helping matters.

Though the convenience of our computers, smartphones, and tablets is unparalleled, increased screen use can affect your eyes. Our work environments have evolved, but the human body doesn’t shift quite as fast as technology.

If you’re experiencing eye fatigue, strained vision, headaches, or neck and shoulder pain, come see what relief our eye care team can offer.

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What is Digital Eye Strain?

Digital eye strain is sometimes called computer vision syndrome. We seem to have eye discomfort and vision problems when looking at a screen for an extended period of time, and strain ramps up as the amount of time we spend on our devices increases.

The symptoms of digital eye strain include:

Eyestrain
Headaches
Blurred vision
Dry eyes
Neck & shoulder pain

Managing Eye Strain

A Comfortable & Ergonomic Workspace

Making sure your workspace is set up well can help with your digital eye strain. Follow these ergonomic tips for relief:

Set up your screen about an arm’s length away and 4–5 inches below your eye level to prevent strain on your neck
Sit in a comfortable chair that allows for proper posture with your feet resting evenly on the ground
Avoid glare from windows or harsh overhead light
If you switch between the screen and a stack of papers, get a document holder that keeps everything on the same level, so you aren’t constantly changing focus
Keep your monitor settings at a level that works for you—not too bright or too dim, with good contrast between text and the background
Don’t forget to blink

Eye Drops

If that dry, achy, irritated feeling in your eyes comes on after every screen time session, you may find relief in a bottle of artificial tears. Check with your optometrist to see if eye drops are a good fit for you. A small bottle could provide big comfort.

If these feelings persist, your symptoms may be related to dry eye disease. Your optometrist can provide additional therapy options to keep your eyes happy and healthy.

The 20-20-20 Rule

You could consider the 20-20-20 rule the golden rule for heavy computer users: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break from your computer screen and focus on something 20 feet away. Your eyes will thank you.

Let Us Help You Find Eye Strain Solutions

If some simple adjustments aren’t helping your digital eye strain, you may need an updated prescription or have an undiagnosed refractive error. An eye exam can make sure your eyes are still working their best.

Though the symptoms of digital eye strain usually resolve with a break from screens, there’s no reason to live with discomfort. Visit OPT Optometric to find relief.

Our Location

We are proudly located in the Mission district.

A bike lock station is located in front of our office. We are a short walk from the 24th Street/Mission BART Station, or metered street parking is available.

To ensure the best one on one experience we are currently scheduling appointments for all in office visits.