What is the Impact of Excess Screen Time On Your Eyes?

If you're reading this blog post from our eye care team, there's a good chance you're using a smartphone or computer screen. You may not know it, but excess screen time can cause problems like eye strain, dry eyes, and chronic headaches. These symptoms can prevent you from working, driving, or even participating in your favorite activities.

Screens are a major part of our lives, but they don't have to cause eye strain. Today, the board-certified professionals at Rothchild Eye Institute will explore some common facts and misconceptions about how screens impact your eyes in Delray Beach, FL. Schedule an eye exam near me if you experience any of the adverse symptoms below.

How much screen time do you have?

The average person spends hours a day on their screens. This includes the computer or laptop, smartphone, or television. Screens emit what is known as blue light, which is harmful to the retina and cornea. Blue light strains the eyes and even causes extended periods of redness and irritation. While the occasional strain is normal, consistent exposure to a screen can lead to long-term issues.

Many people assume that their eyes will adjust to technology over time. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case – just because your vision seems fine, it doesn't mean you're safe from digital eye strain. It's best to limit screen time whenever you can, wear special glasses that filter blue light, and get an annual eye exam near me. Rothchild Eye Institute is proud to serve patients in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, and throughout Palm Beach County, FL.

What happens when I stare at screens for too long?

More and more people experience eye issues as a result of excess screen time. Digital eye strain can lead to blurred vision, frequent headaches, redness around the eyes, dry eyes, and even itchiness. If you need to use a screen for work purposes, we recommend taking breaks to give your eyes a rest. We suggest looking up from your screen every 20 minutes at an object at least 20 feet away.

When should I schedule an eye exam?

Even if you don't have eye strain or headaches, it's still important to have your eyes checked by a professional every year. An eye exam in Delray Beach can reveal early signs of vision issues, like glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. The sooner our doctors at Rothchild Eye Institute can diagnose these types of conditions, the more effective the treatment.

What happens during an eye exam?

During a routine eye exam, our board-certified doctors will ask you about your symptoms and lifestyle habits. Rothchild Eye Institute can perform vision tests to determine if you have any problems with clarity. In addition, we may use advanced technology to check for common eye conditions. If you need corrective lenses or treatment for digital eye strain and headaches, our doctors will explain your options during the appointment.

Resolve eye strain and more with an experienced team

With so many screens in our lives, from TVs to laptops and smartphones, it's easy to get eye strain and headaches, along with other vision issues. But not to worry – Rothchild Eye Institute has a solution. Our team of eye doctors in Delray Beach, FL can perform an eye exam and make recommendations so your vision can stay healthy for life. Call us today for an eye exam near me and learn how to get started.