Digital eye strain: Experts advise vigilance and preventive measures
Adopting healthy viewing habits and regularly consulting eye care professionals are crucial to avoid Computer Vision Syndrome.
Dubai: Increased digital device usage is leading to a rise in Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among both adults and children, according to Dr. Archana Sood, a specialist ophthalmologist and Head of the Department at RAK Hospital.
Extensive screen time linked to CVS Symptoms
The widespread use of digital devices, with individuals spending an average of 8-9 hours daily on screens, has resulted in a surge of CVS cases. Patients commonly report dryness, burning eyes, ocular pain, eye strain, light sensitivity, and headaches. The eye clinic at RAK Hospital has also witnessed an increase in eye discomfort, fatigue, blurred vision, itching, and shoulder and neck pain.
Blue light exposure
Dr. Sood highlights the additional concern of blue light exposure from digital devices. Blue light scatters more than other colors, causing eye strain and potentially impacting sleep cycles, especially when exposed to screens in the evening. Studies have even linked it to potential retinal damage.
Tips to manage blue light
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Blue Light Filter Glasses: Reduce glare, especially in the evenings.
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Monitor Blue Light Filters: Utilize screen overlays if your monitor doesn't have built-in filters.
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Switch to OLED Monitors: Organic LED screens are believed to cause less eye strain.
Maintaining good eye health: Dr. Sood's recommendations
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Lubricating eye drops: Use them at least twice daily to prevent dryness.
20-20-20 Rule: Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.
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Reduce screen time: Encourage breaks and outdoor activities, especially during school vacations. Engage in real games and puzzles to reduce dependence on digital devices.
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Proper screen positioning: Keep screens 15-20 degrees below eye level and 20-28 inches away from your eyes.
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Lighting: Adjust lighting to reduce glare and use anti-glare screens.
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Ergonomic seating: Use a padded chair with proper height adjustment to support good posture.
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Screen management: Utilize night shift modes and screen time features to regulate light exposure.
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Pre-sleep habits: Avoid using screens without ambient light before bedtime.
What to expect during a CVS eye examination
A comprehensive eye examination, including dry eye evaluation and tests to determine CVS severity, will be conducted at RAK Hospital. Preventive measures and tailored treatments will be recommended, with regular follow-up appointments to assess treatment progress. Lubricating eye drops are safe for regular use.
Prevention is key
Dr. Sood emphasizes the importance of healthy viewing habits and regular consultations with eye doctors to prevent and manage CVS symptoms. She encourages parents to bond with their children over non-digital activities during breaks from school to protect their eyes and reduce digital device addiction.