Can Digital Eye Strain Make Your Vision Worse?

by Admin
April 14, 2023

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition that can affect anyone who spends extended periods of time looking at digital screens such as tv monitors, computers, smartphones, and tablets. The symptoms of digital eye strain include eye fatigue, dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. With the increased use of digital devices in our daily lives, many people are wondering whether digital eye strain may also make their vision worse.

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Will Digital Eye Strain Affect My Vision?

First, it's important to understand that digital eye strain does not cause any permanent damage to the eyes. The symptoms are temporary and can usually be relieved by taking breaks from digital devices or adjusting the settings on your device. However, if left untreated, digital eye strain can exacerbate existing vision impairments and make them more pronounced.

One of the main causes of digital eye strain is the blue light emitted by digital screens. Blue light has a shorter wavelength than other colours on the visible light spectrum and can penetrate deeper into the eyes. This can cause your eyes to work harder to focus, leading to eye fatigue and strain. In addition, blue light can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, which can affect the quality of your sleep and lead to further eye strain and fatigue.

Another factor that can contribute to digital eye strain is the distance between your eyes and the screen. When using a computer or other digital device, your eyes need to constantly adjust focus to maintain a clear image on the screen. This can cause the muscles around your eyes to become fatigued, leading to symptoms of digital eye strain.

So, can digital eye strain make my vision worse?

The short answer is no. Digital eye strain does not cause any permanent damage to the eyes or result in a decline in vision. However, if you already have an underlying vision problem such as presbyopia, nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, digital eye strain can exacerbate these conditions and make them more noticeable. For example, if you already have difficulty focusing on objects in the distance, you may find that digital eye strain makes this problem more pronounced when using digital devices.

To prevent digital eye strain from exacerbating existing vision problems, it's important to have regular eye exams and consider blue light-blocking eyeglasses. In addition, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce your risk of digital eye strain. These include:

Adjusting the settings on your digital device to reduce the amount of blue light emitted.
Taking frequent breaks from digital devices to give your eyes a rest.
Positioning your computer screen so that it is at the correct distance from your eyes.
Using proper lighting when using digital devices.
Blinking regularly to keep your eyes lubricated.
Using artificial tears to relieve dry eyes.

Learn More About Digital Eye Strain At Sunridge Eye Clinic

Digital eye strain is a temporary condition that can cause discomfort and fatigue, but it does not cause any permanent damage to the eyes or result in a decline in vision. However, if you have an underlying vision problem, digital eye strain can exacerbate these conditions and make them more noticeable. To prevent digital eye strain from impacting existing vision problems, it's important to have regular eye exams and take steps to reduce your risk of digital eye strain. By following these tips, you can help protect your eyes and maintain good vision while using digital devices.

If you are experiencing digital eye strain symptoms or need to book an eye exam to check the quality of your vision, contact Sunridge Eye Clinic can help. Our optometrists can provide a comprehensive eye exam and effective treatments to address your eye health and help you see clearly. To book an eye exam, contact Sunridge Eye Clinic at 1-403-280-7518 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: Are all blue light-blocking eyeglasses the same?
A: Not all blue light lenses are created equal. Before you make a purchase, make sure to ask your optometrist at what wavelength blue light is reduced.

Q: What are some other effects of too much blue light exposure?
A: Overexposure to blue light can lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as:

Eye strain and fatigue
Dry eyes
Headaches

In addition to wearing your blue light lenses when on digital devices, make sure to blink frequently, have a good sitting posture, and set up your workspace to reduce digital eye strain.

Q: Can I have my current eyeglass frames fitted with blue light-blocking lenses?
A: Our team is absolutely able to fit your eyeglasses with quality blue light lenses. Our Calgary optometrists offer comprehensive services to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light.