Five Easy Tips To Avoid Digital Eyestrain
Because of the “new normal,” many children are in front of their computers due to their online-schooling. When not on their Online Class, most children find themselves holding a handheld device such as Smart Phones and Tablets. But little do they know that spending too much time in front of a Digital Device may lead to Digital Eyestrain.
Digital Eyestrain, or Computer Vision Syndrome, is a collection of eye-related Signs and Symptoms that are usually connected to the prolonged use of gadgets. Symptoms such as Headache, Shoulder and Neck Pain, Dry Eyes, and Difficulty in Focusing are some of the few signs of Digital Eyestrain.
In partnership with Clinica Bansil, a Pediatric clinic in Angeles City and Adreo Preschool, we’ve simplified FIVE EASY TIPS on how to lessen the chances of Digital Eyestrain on Children.
1. Teach them to do Vision Breaks (20-20-20 Rule)
Our eyes, much like a smartphone camera, auto-focuses when looking at near, which we call “Accommodation.”. During this process, different eye muscles work together to produce a clear image when focusing on something near like a Smartphone or Computer Screen. The longer you look at something, the longer these muscles work to maintain focus, and these muscles only relax once you start looking far away (for example, 20 feet away).
Teach them the 20-20-20 rule. The 20-20-20 rule is a type of Vision Break where for every 20 minutes of gadget use, the child looks at 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This rule makes sure that their eyes take a break for every 20 minutes they use digital devices. Some even extend it to 30-30-30.
2. Proper Positioning can lessen Neck, Shoulder, and Back Pain
Improper posture can lead to the usual Neck, Shoulder, and Back Pain.
When using a computer, According to the American Optometric Association, a computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level as measured from the center of the screen and 20 to 28 inches away. Reference materials such as books and papers should be above the keyboard and below the monitor, possibly in a book stand or document holder.
Smartphones, Tablets, and other hand-held gadgets should also be used not closer than 30 centimeters, and teach them to avoid using these gadgets while lying down as this could introduce improper posture.
3. Blinking can help Lessen Dry Eyes
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, we humans normally blink 15 times per minute, and blinking is reduced to an average of 5 to 7 times per minute while using our gadgets. Since blinking is our eye's natural way of spreading our tears, less blinking may lead to Dry Eye Syndrome.
Putting a note near the computer monitor may help remind the child of his or her blinking. Although Artificial Tears may be helpful, it is highly advisable first to see an Eyecare practitioner.
4. Activate the Built-in Blue Light Protection
Harmful Blue-Light, or High Energy Visible Light, from Digital Devices with LED displays may contribute to the eyestrain of your child due to the intensity and glare of the screen. It could also affect their sleeping cycle. Luckily, most smartphones, Computers, and other Laptop Operating systems have built-in Blue-Light filtering mechanisms.
Apple macOS and iOS users know this as “Night Shift.” People who use Android phones and Windows 10 operating system may be familiar with this feature as “Night Light.” Some monitors also have it built-in feature, like Samsung’s “Eye Saver Mode.”
It’s free and it’s built-in. Turn it on.
5. Have their Eyes Examined
Although “Anti-Rad” and other Blue-Light filtering lenses are now widespread on the internet, there is no such thing as a one-lens-fix-all solution. An Eyecare practitioner may need to examine your child’s eye to know what you need precisely.
According to the American Optometric Association, Digital Eyestrain symptoms may be caused by Poor Lighting, Glare on the screen, improper viewing distance, poor seating posture, Uncorrected Vision problems, and a combination of these symptoms.
A certified Eyecare practitioner can assess uncorrected vision problems and Dry Eye Syndrome. This gives them an idea of what to give your child to help fight digital eye strain, such as Computer Eyeglasses, Artificial Tears, Blue-Light filtering lenses, Vision Therapy, etc.
Visit your Eye Doctor.