Digital eye strain is a growing concern in today’s screen-focused world.
At Advanced Eye Care Services in State College, PA, we’re here to help you understand the condition, manage your symptoms, and protect your vision.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome, is a common condition caused by prolonged use of screens such as computers, smartphones, and tablets.
When we focus on screens for extended periods, our blink rate decreases, leading to dryness, discomfort, and visual fatigue.
Common symptoms include:
- Dry, itchy, or watery eyes
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Headaches
- Eye discomfort or burning sensation
- Neck and shoulder pain
While the condition is not usually permanent, ongoing strain can impact your comfort, productivity, and long-term visual health.
Why and How Screens Affect Your Vision
Staring at a screen differs from reading a book or looking at printed material. Digital displays emit glare, have pixelated images, and require constant focusing and refocusing.
Additional contributing factors include:
- Poor lighting or screen glare
- Improper viewing distance or angle
- Uncorrected vision problems
- Blue light exposure
In a connected world where work, entertainment, and communication often rely on screens, managing digital eye strain has become an essential part of eye care.
How to Relieve Digital Eye Strain
Fortunately, several strategies can reduce symptoms and protect your eyes:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Adjust your screen settings: Increase text size, reduce brightness, and choose high-contrast settings.
- Position your screen correctly: Keep it about arm’s length away and slightly below eye level.
- Blink more often: Remind yourself to blink to keep your eyes hydrated.
- Consider computer glasses: Specialized lenses can help reduce strain.
If symptoms persist despite these adjustments, an eye exam can determine whether vision correction or additional treatment is needed.
Managing Digital Eye Strain at Advanced Eye Care Services
Our team takes a personalized approach to diagnosing and treating digital eye strain. We evaluate your vision, eye health, and daily habits to pinpoint the source of your discomfort.
Treatment plans may include:
Updated glasses or contact lens prescriptions
Computer glasses designed for screen use
Recommendations for screen ergonomics
Lubricating eye drops for dryness
Blue light–filtering lens options
Because every patient’s visual needs are different, we focus on customized care that fits your lifestyle – whether you spend your day in an office, in front of multiple monitors, or using handheld devices on the go.
FAQs About Digital Eye Strain
Q: How long does it take for digital eye strain to improve?
A: Symptoms often improve within a few days once you adjust your screen habits and follow treatment recommendations. Persistent discomfort should be evaluated by an optometrist.
Q: Can children get digital eye strain?
A: Yes. Children who spend extended time on tablets, computers, or gaming devices are at risk and may experience eye fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.
Q: Will blue light glasses help with eye strain?
A: Blue light–filtering lenses can reduce glare and visual fatigue for some people, especially if they spend many hours on screens. Your eye doctor can recommend if they’re right for you.
Find Relief from Eye Strain in State College, PA
If you’re experiencing headaches, blurred vision, or discomfort after using your devices, digital eye strain may be the cause. At Advanced Eye Care Services, we can help you find relief and keep your eyes healthy for the long term.
Visit us at 1470 Martin St, State College, PA, or request your eye care appointment online today.