We are in the digital age, where our lives are increasingly centered around screens. There are many screens we look at such as laptops and desktops we use for work, to smartphones and tablets for communication and entertainment. As a result, digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), is becoming a very common condition. Regular eye exams are critical in detecting and managing this modern-day problem. Eyewear candy would like to share the relationship between eye exams and digital eye strain.

How Does Digital Eye Strain Work?

First let’s start by talking about what a digital eye stain is and how it affects your vision. Digital eye strain is a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged digital device usage. Symptoms often include dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, neck and shoulder pain, as well as eye discomfort. It’s not hard to see why these issues are increasingly prevalent, considering that many of us spend hours each day staring at screens.

Can an Eye Exam Detect Eye Strain?

You might think that if you’re experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain, it may be enough to simply cut back on screen time and or invest in some over-the-counter eye drops. However, while these steps can help, they’re not comparable to professional eye care. An eye exam can accurately diagnose digital eye strain, rule out other causes for your symptoms, and provide a comprehensive treatment plan. During the exam, your optometrist will assess your eye health and evaluate how well your eyes work together. They may also ask about your screen habits, such as how often you use digital devices, the typical distance between your eyes and the screen, and the lighting conditions when you use these devices. This information helps to diagnose digital eye strain and provides insight into changes you can make to reduce symptoms.

How Do You Prevent & Treat Digital Eye Syndrome?

Eye exams play a major role not only in diagnosing digital eye strain but also in preventing it. Your optometrist can provide personalized advice based on your eye health and lifestyle. This might include recommending specific types of eyewear designed to reduce eye strain, such as glasses with lenses that block blue light or offer a prescribed magnification eyewear for screen use. Your eye care professional may also recommend the 20-20-20 rule. This rule is based on every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and then look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce fatigue. In some cases, your optometrist may prescribe eye exercises to strengthen your eye muscles and improve focus. They might also suggest lifestyle changes, like improving your posture at your desk or adjusting the lighting when using screens and digital devices.

Why is it Important to have a Routine Eye Exam?

Given that digital devices are frequently used in our daily lives, regular eye exams have never been more important. Even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain, you should still prioritize routine eye check-ups. These exams can detect early signs of eye strain and other vision-related problems, ensuring that you get the necessary treatment before the symptoms start to affect your quality of life.

Eye Exams, Eyeglasses, Sunglasses & More in Delray Beach, FL (Just Minutes Away from Boca Raton, Highland Beach, Kings Point, Golf & Boynton Beach, Florida)

It is very important to care for your eyes especially from excessive screen time. For quality eye care, eye exams and more, contact Eyewear Candy and make an appointment today!