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Long hours of screen time, whether on computers, mobile phones, tablets or televisions, can have a significant effect on the eyes and on overall visual health. These effects involve various disorders and symptoms caused by continuous, intensive focusing on digital screens. The main consequences include the following:
Eye fatigue and strain (digital eye strain)
Focusing on a screen continuously for many hours can lead to eye fatigue, often described as heaviness or tension around the eyes. The eyes become strained, especially when the screen light is bright or contrasts with the surrounding lighting. This is particularly marked in people who work long hours at a computer or spend a lot of time looking at mobile phones and tablets.
Dry eye
Frequent and prolonged screen use reduces the natural blink reflex, that is the opening and closing of the eyelids, which keeps the eyes moist and protected. Dry eye can cause discomfort, blurred vision and even a burning sensation or pain in the eyes, as the tear glands do not work well enough to lubricate the surface of the eye.
Blurred vision
Spending many hours in front of screens can lead to blurred vision, mainly after prolonged use. The need to keep adjusting focus and the distance between the eyes and the screen can cause temporary blurring, affecting the clarity of vision.
Headaches and dizziness
Eye strain from continuous exposure to screens can cause headaches and, in some cases, dizziness. This happens because the eyes have to focus and adjust constantly, which can put a strain on the optic nerve and the eye muscles.
Negative effect on the sleep cycle
Exposure to the blue light emitted by screens can affect the quality of sleep. Blue light suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep cycle, resulting in difficulty falling asleep and poorer sleep quality.
Tips for protecting your eyes
To limit the negative effects, it is recommended to:
- Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look for 20 seconds at something at least 20 feet (about 6 metres) away.
- Adjust the screen brightness to the surrounding lighting.
- Place the screen at a suitable distance and angle to avoid excessive strain.
- Avoid using screens shortly before bed or, if necessary, use blue light filters.
Long hours in front of screens are now unavoidable, but with a few simple changes and proper care, serious effects on the eyes can be avoided.
Questions about your case?
Dr. Skouteris will examine you at his practice in Neo Psychiko and explain your options.
Ophthalmic surgeon trained at the John Radcliffe University Hospital in Oxford and Fellow of the European Board of Ophthalmology (FEBO).
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