The Impact of Computer Screen Time on Your Eyes

As the world becomes increasingly digitized, more and more people are spending extended periods of time staring at computer screens. For example, many people are no longer going to university in person and are instead enrolling in online degree programs. If you’re pursuing something challenging like a bachelor degree law, you’re likely on your computer for hours completing coursework and studying up on legal research, the legal system, criminal justice, public policy, legal ethics, and tips for the bar exam every single day. This extended screen time can have a negative impact on your eyes, causing digital eyestrain and even long-term damage, but there are things you can do to help protect your eyes from the harmful effects of computer screen time. Keep reading to learn more.

How does computer screen time affect your eyes?

Computer screens emit what is called “blue light.” This blue light is a type of high-energy light that is known to be particularly harmful to your eyes. When you stare at a computer screen for an extended period of time, the blue light can cause your eyes to fatigue and strain. This can lead to a number of vision problems, including blurred vision, dry eyes, and even permanent damage to your eyesight.

How do you treat eye problems associated with computer use?

If you’ve noticed a significant change in your vision due to prolonged computer use, you should schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist right away. An ophthalmologist is an expert eye doctor who can let you know your options for correcting any vision problems. In many cases, you may need to get eyeglasses to correct the problem, but eye surgery is also an option for a more permanent solution.

Lasik eye surgery in Torrance or anywhere else is a type of refractive surgery used to correct vision problems like nearsightedness and farsightedness. The procedure involves using a laser to change the shape of the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. This can improve vision by correcting the way light passes through the eye.

How do you reduce eye problems associated with computer use?

There are a few things you can do to help reduce the negative impact of computer screens on your eyes. First, you should take regular breaks from looking at screens. One easy way to do this is to set a timer to remind yourself to take breaks every 20 minutes or so. During those breaks, focus on something else entirely, like getting up and moving around or simply closing your eyes for a few minutes.

Although it might sound surprising, drinking water can also reduce eyestrain and fatigue when using your computer for long periods of time. When you drink water, it travels through the blood vessels in your body, including the small blood vessels in your eyes. The water helps to keep the eyes moist and washes away the substances that can cause irritation. This will help to keep your eyes hydrated and functioning at their best.

You should also make sure your computer setup is as ergonomic as possible. This means adjusting the brightness and contrast of the screen so it’s comfortable for your eyes, positioning the screen at eye level, and using an anti-glare screen protector if necessary. Additionally, keep your computer room well lit, and avoid working in direct sunlight.

Last but not least, you can supplement your computer use with some good old-fashioned eye exercises. There are a number of exercises that can help improve eye health and relieve eyestrain, like focusing on objects far away then close up, rolling your eyes in circles clockwise then counterclockwise, and blinking rapidly for 20 seconds several times throughout the day.