Eyestrain:
It is a common condition that occurs as a result of prolonged heavy use of the eyes (such as: driving a car and reading) or using electronic devices for a long time (such as: computers, tablets, and smart phones). It usually does not pose a danger and goes away once the eye rests, and it may lead to fatigue and a decrease in productivity, which affects safety of the person in field works and daily activities, as some are unable to change the nature of the eye-straining work, but steps can be taken to reduce it.
The Eyes and Electronic Devices:
Majority of people use electronic devices for a long time during the day and night, the discomfort caused by some after looking at the screens is eye fatigue due to lack of focus and lack of blinking or blinking less when looking at the screens, which leads to fatigue and dryness of the eye (the normal blinking is about 15 times per minute) The long-term effects of eye exposure to electronic devices are yet to be determined.
Other names:
Digital Eye - Digital Eye Strain - Digital Eye Stress - Computer Vision Syndrome - Computerized Vision Syndrome, because it is often caused by electronic devices.
Causes:
Symptoms of eye strain are caused by:
- Poor lighting.
- Glare emitted from an electronic screen.
- Incorrect viewing distances.
- Poor sitting position.
- Uncorrected vision problems (e.g. farsightedness or nearsightedness).
The extent to which individuals experience visual symptoms often depends on their level of visual ability and the amount of time they spend looking at a digital screen.
Risk factors:
- Eye problems (e.g., farsightedness or nearsightedness).
- Using electronic devices, especially from a close distance for an extended period (two hours or more).
- Focusing when doing non-stop activities to rest the eyes.
- Bright or dim light.
Symptoms:
- Eye Exhaustion.
- Fatigue, burning or itching in the eye.
- Eye dryness or tearing.
- Increased sensitivity to light.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Headache.
- Pain in the neck, shoulders or back.
- Blurred or double vision.
- Inability to keep an eye open.
- In some cases, the signs and symptoms of eyestrain can indicate an eye problem that needs treatment.
When to see a doctor:
When self-care doesn't relieve eye strain.
Complications:
Eyestrain does not have long-term consequences, but it can make a person tired and reduce the ability to focus.
Diagnosis:
- Clinical examination.
- Eye examination, including vision tests.
Treatment:
Treatment consists of changes in daily habits or the environment around the person in addition to eye exercises.
Prevention:
- Adjust lighting and avoid bright light directly on the eyes.
- The computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (about 4 or 5 inches).
- Put the light source behind when reading, and direct the light on the page or assignment.
- Using curtains to reduce the brightness of the sun in addition to reducing the intensity of lighting in the room.
- Take eye breaks every now and then.
- Wear sunglasses that protect from the sun's ultraviolet rays.
- For children: It is recommended to set a specific time for using electronic devices.
- Use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) to help prevent and relieve dry eyes.
- Wear eyeglasses prescribed by a doctor when reading or using devices.
- Limit exposure to hot or dry air and avoid smoke (incense, campfires, etc.).
- Quit Smoking.
Instructions when using electronic devices:
- Keep about 25 inches (arm's length) away from the computer screen.
- Adjust the inclination of the screen at eye level, not below it.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule; Distract to a place at least 20 feet away, every 20 minutes, for at least 20 seconds.
- Rest your eyes for 15 minutes after using the computer for two hours.
- Do frequent eyelashes to moisturize the eyes, and use moisturizing drops when feeling dry.
- Adjust room lighting and avoid bright lighting and glare directly on the eye.
- Keep the screen clean.
- Adjust the screen settings in terms of font enlargement, contrast and brightness adjustment to the appropriate level.
Many of the eye symptoms caused by using electronic devices are temporary and lessen after you stop using them.
Contact lenses:
Oftentimes contact lenses can exacerbate eye dryness and irritation when using electronic devices. Some tips include:
- Give your eyes a break by wearing glasses.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses while sleeping.
- Ensure that contact lenses are clean.
- You must see a doctor if there is redness in the eye, blurry or watery vision, in addition to light sensitivity.