The average American spends more than seven hours a day staring at a digital screen. This could be on a computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet. In Saline and Chelsea, MI, our eye doctors near you can help treat dry eyes and eye fatigue caused by prolonged screen time. Before visiting our optometrists, there are some things you can do at home.

The 20/20/20 Rule

Created by Jeffrey Anshel, OD, in the late 1990s, this rule suggests that you take breaks from digital screens every 20 minutes and look at an object positioned 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps reduce the demand placed on your eyes. While more recent studies indicate there may be more to the problem than simply following the 20/20/20 rule, it is still a helpful reminder to step away from your screen regularly to decrease the negative effects on your eyes.

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

When you work on a digital screen, your eyes have to work harder. This can lead to digital eye strain. Symptoms of digital eye strain include dry eyes, tired eyes, blurry vision, sore eyes, and headaches. Most of these symptoms are caused by an undiagnosed eye condition or a health issue. It is a good idea to get an eye exam if you notice any of these problems when using digital screens.

What to Do for Digital Eye Strain

To help your eyes feel better when spending a lot of time on digital screens, you should:

•             Take frequent breaks away from the screen

•             Use eye drops to help lubricate the eyes

•             Sit farther away from the screen

•             Reduce glare from the screen with a filter

•             Wear eyeglasses rather than contact lenses when doing digital work

All of these strategies may help, but the best way to address digital eye strain is to schedule an eye exam with your optometrist, who can properly diagnose and treat your condition.

Contact An Eye Doctor Near You in Saline and Chelsea, MI

At Saline Optometry/Chelsea Eyeglass Co., our optometrists can provide the care you need to address dry eyes and other symptoms related to screen time. We will also offer suggestions to help minimize the damage that digital screens are causing. Give our office a call today to schedule an appointment.