Working from home, schooling from home, stuck at home: this tends to lead to more and more digital screen time. More time on our computers, more time on electronic tablets, and probably the worst: more time on cell phone screens.
Should we be concerned?
Absolutely.
Common signs of too much digital screen time include:
Strained and tired eyes
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Decreased vision at night
Less common, but more worrisome results of too much digital screen time:
- Double vision
- Turned eyes (one or both turning in)
Why?
Our eyes are not designed to focus on small images at close distances (such as words in a book or on the computer screen), so when this occurs for long periods of time, our vision becomes overly strained. Additionally, people already struggling with diagnosed or undiagnosed visual skill deficiencies, can be pushed over the edge with the additional stress caused by more screen time.
What can you do?
For most people, reducing your time on digital devices and computers whenever possible is a good fix. When you must be on computers or digital devices, use the 20-20-20 rule:
Take a break from the screen every 20 minutes and
Look 20 feet away for
20 seconds
For more concerning symptoms like double vision and turned eyes, or if you or your child has struggled with eye movement, tracking, and/or eye coordination problems (click here to see our symptoms list) when reading or doing close work, consider having a Developmental Vision Evaluation by calling (703) 729-3545.
Can these problems affect people of any age?
Yes, and here at Cantwell Vision Therapy, we diagnose and treat children, teens, and adults.