Digital Eye Strain in Austin

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Screen-Based Strain

What does your technology do for you? Today, we can order dinner, buy concert tickets, chat with friends, play games, and even work from virtually any device with a screen. Smartphones, gaming consoles, computers, and tablets make our lives more convenient.

But, there are some drawbacks to increased screen time. It’s almost impossible to get away from our devices and as a result, an estimated 65% of Americans suffer from discomfort related to digital eye strain.

Digital eye strain is also known as computer vision syndrome. It refers to a group of ocular issues stemming from too much time spent using digital devices.

If you’re experiencing eye discomfort after staring at your screen, we can help. We can assess your screen habits and provide strategies to mitigate your discomfort.

Book an appointment to find relief from digital eye strain today.

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Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

There are a few common symptoms associated with digital eye strain, including:

  • Dry eyes
  • Headaches
  • Strained eyes
  • Blurry vision
  • Neck and shoulder pain

Often, symptoms will alleviate when you take a solid screen time break. But, discomfort can return once you’re in front of a digital device again. In order to find relief in the long term, you may need to implement some mitigation strategies.

It’s also important to visit your optometrist to assess whether there’s another underlying condition contributing to your symptoms.

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Mitigating Digital Eye Strain

Adjusting your work area, taking intentional screen breaks, and adjusting your lighting while using a digital device are all strategies that help reduce digital eye strain.

Ergonomics

Office ergonomics and proper posture can help to keep you comfortable while using digital devices. While you’re at your desk, be sure to sit upright with your feet flat on the floor. Your shoulders should not be rounded or hunched and your neck should align with your torso.

Screens should be about 4–5 inches below eye level and 20–28 inches from your eyes. And keep your keyboard and mouse near enough to prevent reaching.

If you’re reading on your digital device, increase the font size to minimize squinting. Contrast and color tones should also be set to maximize your comfort.

The levels of light both in the room around you and on your device can prevent digital eye strain. Turn down your screen’s brightness to match the lighting levels of your surroundings. If the light from the room is reflecting in your screen, the glare can also contribute to eye strain.

Anti-glare screens are available for your device’s display, and glasses with an anti-reflective coating can help.

When you’re concentrating on your work, it might be challenging to take a break, but following the 20-20-20 rule can help to relax your eyes. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a chance to refocus, helping to reduce strain.

Kids & Digital Eye Strain

Adults use screens frequently, but they’re creeping into kids' lives too. Studies show that the risk of children developing visual issues increases after more than 3 hours of screen time.

Increased device use also means kids are spending more time indoors. The World Health Organization recommends limiting screen time for children and encouraging them to play outside instead.

Children should have regular, comprehensive eye exams to assess the health of their vision, regardless of their screen time.

Book an appointment today!

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Our Location

Our Address

Visit us on Guadalupe Street, just across from the Jesse H. Jones Communication Center (Building B). You’ll find parking behind the building or at the pay-to-park area across the street from Walter Webb Hall.

  • 2510 Guadalupe Street
  • Austin, TX 78705

Clinic Hours

  • Monday: 9:30 AM 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:30 AM 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:30 AM 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:30 AM 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:30 AM 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: Closed

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Our Blogs

Five Types of Eyewear Everyone Needs!

Eye Health

Your day-to-day tasks change, so the glasses you need will vary. Below are five types of eyewear everyone needs! Computer Eyewear The average person spends about eight hours looking at their computer a day, and this often results in tired and strained eyes. Computer eyewear helps alleviate the eye strain that is associated with staring […]

Read More…

October 31, 2023
Dr. Kevin Gajda

The Dangers of UV Rays

Eye Health

It’s always fun to go out in the sun, but sometimes, the sun can cause more harm than good. Many people are aware of the damage the sun can cause on the skin but don’t know about the impact on our eyes. Without proper protection, the sun’s UV rays can negatively impact the health of […]

Read More…

October 31, 2023
Dr. Kevin Gajda

FAQ: Dry Eye Syndrome

Eye Health

What is dry eye syndrome? Dry eye syndrome is caused by your eyes not producing enough lubricant to keep the surface of your eyes moist. You may experience a burning and aching sensation, heavy and itchy eyes, sore and dry sensation, and blurred vision. Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition, and if you […]

Read More…

October 31, 2023
Dr. Kevin Gajda

Your day-to-day tasks change, so the glasses you need will vary. Below are five types of eyewear everyone needs! Computer Eyewear The average person spends about eight hours looking at their computer a day, and this often results in tired and strained eyes. Computer eyewear helps alleviate the eye strain that is associated with staring […]

Read More…

It’s always fun to go out in the sun, but sometimes, the sun can cause more harm than good. Many people are aware of the damage the sun can cause on the skin but don’t know about the impact on our eyes. Without proper protection, the sun’s UV rays can negatively impact the health of […]

Read More…

What is dry eye syndrome? Dry eye syndrome is caused by your eyes not producing enough lubricant to keep the surface of your eyes moist. You may experience a burning and aching sensation, heavy and itchy eyes, sore and dry sensation, and blurred vision. Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition, and if you […]

Read More…

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