Digital eye strain, known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) in the medical literature; It manifests itself with burning, stinging or blurred vision in the eyes at the end of the day. It is one of the most common eye problems of the modern age.
What are the Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain?
- Dryness, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- sensitivity to light
- Difficulty keeping eyes open
- Headache (especially in the temples and forehead)
- Neck and shoulder pain (due to poor posture)
5 Golden Rules to Protect Your Eyes on the Screen
- 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Don't Forget to Blink: The number of blinks on the screen decreases to 5-7 per minute; consciously blink frequently
- Adjust Screen Distance: The computer screen should be 50-60 cm away, the top edge should be at eye level or slightly below.
- Use Blue Light Filter: Enable Night Mode or Blue Light Filter feature on phone and computer
- Do not neglect the eye examination: Eye fatigue may be a sign of underlying defects such as astigmatism or hyperopia.
How Does Screen Use Affect Eye Health?
When looking at the screen, the number of blinks naturally decreases (from 15-20 to 5-7 per minute). This causes the surface of the eye to dry out. Focusing on close range for a long time causes fatigue in the eye muscles. Blue light creates extra strain on the eyes and can disrupt sleep patterns. Intensive screen use in children can accelerate the development of myopia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does digital eye strain cause permanent damage?
It is usually temporary. However, if it becomes chronic without taking precautions, eye dryness, difficulty focusing and a decrease in vision quality may become permanent.
Do blue light glasses really work?
Although some users report relief, the scientific evidence is not yet strong. The 20-20-20 rule and regular breaks are more proven methods.
How many hours of screen time a day is recommended for children?
Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. It is recommended not more than 1 hour a day for 2-5 year olds, and not more than 2 hours a day for school age children.
