Prolonged screen time can lead to eye strain and discomfort, a condition known as asthenopia.
Understanding the Impact of Screen Time on Your Eyes
Extended periods spent looking at screens can have several effects on your eyes, primarily due to the intense focus required and the potential for glare.
- Eye Fatigue (Asthenopia): Overuse of the eyes during prolonged focus on a screen can lead to eye discomfort, dimness of vision, and headaches. This is often referred to as asthenopia.
- Glare and Strain: Any glare on the screen can further strain the eyes, exacerbating the symptoms of eye fatigue.
Summary Table
| Effect | Description | Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Fatigue | Discomfort, dimness of vision, headache | Prolonged focus on a screen, overuse of eyes |
| Increased Eye Strain | Exacerbation of eye fatigue symptoms | Glare on the screen |
What to Do
Some practical solutions to mitigate these effects:
- Taking regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Adjusting screen brightness to match the surrounding light.
- Using an anti-glare screen protector.
- Ensuring proper viewing distance (arm's length away).
- Blinking frequently to prevent dry eyes.
