How Screen Time Impacts Our Eyes
In today’s world, we rely on technology and digital devices for work and entertainment. From working on a computer, playing video games, or watching television, screen time has become a huge part of our everyday lives. Though we know it’s important to take breaks on behalf of social interactions, could there be other reasons why we shouldn’t spend so much time in front of screens? How negatively screen time can impact our eyes may come as a surprise for many.
Blue Light
The technology we use everyday produces high energy visible light, known as blue light. Though the two measure at different wavelengths, visible blue light rays are almost as damaging as invisible UV rays. Long-term exposure to blue light is linked to retinal cell damage, and can increase the risk of eye disease. In less serious cases, blue light can strain and dry out your eyes leading to deteriorated vision. It is important to take frequent breaks from your screen throughout the day to allow your eyes proper rest. Cutting back on screen time can decrease your future risks, and can help your eyes feel less fatigued.
How to Cut Back
It can be difficult to cut back on electronic use if your job requires you to use it, but there are always ways to limit your screen time throughout the day. When people take a mental break from work, they usually jump right onto their smartphones. Since your eyes feel tired from staring at a computer screen, looking at a phone screen will not be beneficial. Limit your screen time by laying your head down or closing your eyes for 30 seconds. Stand up for 5 minutes every hour to allow yourself to stretch, move around, and give your eyes the chance to readjust. For young children, it is ideal to restrain screen time for the first year of life. A child’s eyes are still developing, and screen time during their first few months can cause future vision problems such as nearsightedness. Provide them with interactive toys without the distraction and harmful effects of blue light.
Screen time can be damaging to your eyes, and should be limited everyday. Find ways to protect your eyes to ensure a long life of clear eye-sight. Eye protection is a priority of ours to help patients protect their improved vision. To learn more about protective eye-gear, contact us today!