In 2024, our screens are literally straining our eyes more than ever before – and the consequences are more serious than you might think

As we navigate through 2024, our relationship with digital devices has reached unprecedented levels. 62% increased smart phone screen time, 41% increased TV screen time, 39% increased laptop screen time for both work and personal use among adults who wear corrective lenses. This dramatic surge in screen exposure has created a widespread health concern that affects millions of Americans: digital eye strain.

The Growing Digital Eye Strain Epidemic

Nearly seven in 10 respondents report that they experience symptoms associated with digital eye strain, making it one of the most common vision-related issues in our modern era. Digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), encompasses symptoms of digital eye strain such as asthenopia, headache, neckache, red eyes, watery eyes, or burning sensation in the eyes.

The pandemic significantly accelerated this trend. During the pandemic, more people relied on digital devices for work and socializing. As a result, the number of adults with computer vision syndrome jumped to 78%. Even more concerning, about 50% to 60% of children dealt with this condition during the pandemic, representing a dramatic increase from pre-pandemic levels.

Understanding the Physical Impact on Your Eyes

When you stare at digital screens, your eyes work significantly harder than during normal activities. Viewing a computer or digital screen often makes the eyes work harder. As a result, the unique characteristics and high visual demands of computer and digital screen viewing make many individuals susceptible to the development of vision-related symptoms.

The symptoms are varied and can significantly impact your daily life:

• Eye Discomfort: This can feel like dryness, watering, itching, burning or the sensation of something in your eye
• Blurred Vision: Extended screen time can cause temporary blurred vision. This occurs because your eyes continuously adjust focus between the screen and other objects, leading to eye muscle fatigue
• Headaches: Straining to see small text or images on a screen can lead to headaches
• Reduced Blinking: Humans normally blink around 15 times each minute. When staring at screens, the frequency decreases to half or a third. This can lead to dry, irritated, and tired eyes

Long-term Consequences Beyond Eye Strain

Perhaps most alarming is the impact on vision development, particularly in children. One of the most significant ocular health complications of the COVID-19 pandemic has been new-onset myopia and the increased progression of existing myopia due to excessive near work. The prevalence of myopia has been nearly 50% in the COVID era, with accelerated progression from 0.3D in pre-COVID to 1D in the COVID era.

Some research shows that continuous screen use for at least two hours can be enough to trigger symptoms. The longer you spend staring at screens, the more likely you are to develop symptoms. This threshold is particularly concerning given that the average American worker spends seven hours a day on the computer either in the office or working from home.

Proven Strategies for Protection

Fortunately, there are evidence-based approaches to combat digital eye strain. The most widely recommended technique is the 20-20-20 rule. The 20-20-20 rule suggests that for every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen, you should try to take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. A 2020 study found that educating patients with CVS about the 20-20-20 rule led to significant improvements in dry eye symptoms and tear film stability. While overall CVS symptoms showed only slight improvement, the intervention demonstrated meaningful benefits for eye comfort and health over a 20-day period.

Additional protective measures include:

• Optimize Your Environment: Ensure your work environment is well-lit to reduce glare and strain. Avoid using screens in dark rooms, as the contrast between the bright screen and dark surroundings can be harsh on your eyes
• Proper Screen Setup: Ensure your screen is at eye level and about 20-24 inches away from your face. Adjust the brightness and contrast to comfortable levels, and consider using a screen filter to reduce glare
• Conscious Blinking: Consciously remind yourself to blink more frequently when using screens

When to Seek Professional Help

While these self-care measures are essential, professional eye care remains crucial. A doctor of optometry can diagnose digital eyestrain through a comprehensive eye exam. Uncorrected vision problems can increase the severity of symptoms, making regular eye examinations even more important in our digital age.

For residents of Suffolk County seeking comprehensive eye care, an experienced eye doctor Suffolk County can provide specialized assessment and treatment for digital eye strain. North Shore Advanced Eye Care, led by Dr. Edward J. Moylan, offers cutting-edge technology and personalized care to address the unique challenges of modern digital living. At NSAEC, a distinguished private practice renowned for its cutting-edge technology and personalized approach, Dr. Edward J. Moylan leads a team committed to delivering top-tier primary eye care services tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs and preferences.

The Path Forward

As we continue to integrate digital devices into every aspect of our lives, protecting our vision becomes increasingly critical. There is a need to increase awareness about digital eye strain since digital screen devices have become an inseparable part of the lifestyle. The good news is that with proper awareness, preventive measures, and professional care when needed, we can maintain healthy vision in our digital world.

Patients are looking for solutions. Of the respondents who reported experiencing digital eye strain, 99% had tried at least one method for reducing associated symptoms. This demonstrates that people are actively seeking relief, but the key is implementing evidence-based strategies consistently and seeking professional guidance when symptoms persist.

Don’t let digital eye strain compromise your vision and quality of life. Take proactive steps today by implementing the 20-20-20 rule, optimizing your workspace, and scheduling regular comprehensive eye exams. Your eyes – and your future self – will thank you for the investment in proper eye care.