Globally, rapid digitalization has seen virtually every industry create an online presence. As a result, billions of people around the world are spending more time online than ever before for tasks ranging from professional endeavors to personal interests. As a result, recent surveys find that the average American adult has increased their screen time by over 60%. Since 2020, this is equivalent to spending about seven hours online daily. That said, while this has brought on an unparalleled level of convenience, it’s not totally without its cons.
Research suggests that too much time spent in front of screens can negatively impact well-being. This is largely due to the unhealthy habits it fosters, such as a tendency to overeat and adopt a sedentary lifestyle. More specifically, though, screen times have also been linked to spikes in ocular concerns. Considering that even those without any pre-existing eye issues are not immune to these screen-based problems, it stands to reason that those with prescriptions may face an even bigger risk.
The ocular effect of too much screen time
Experts say screen time is dangerous to the eyes not because it causes direct damage like the sun but rather because it impairs critical bodily systems connected to eye function. For instance, the last few years have seen the rise of computer vision syndrome(CVS). This is described as more akin to a repetitive movement injury like carpal tunnel since it happens when the eyes are forced to focus and refocus along the path over and over. In the long run, this causes muscular straining that can trigger other problems, such as double vision and discomfort.
Nowadays, surveys estimate that up to 90% of respondents who often work with computers suffer from related symptoms. Such effects are even why many tech manufacturers have taken eye care into account. To illustrate, Android phones have night lights and night modes. Since these use gentler hues and brightness, they’re gentler on the eyes.
Given this, excessive screen time can be more harmful to those with prescriptions because their eyes’ functions are already compromised to begin with. As such, any extra pressure that can impact how their eyes work is only likely to result in more pronounced symptoms. In many cases, repeated periods of extended screen time may even worsen existing eye problems. For example, a person with myopia may see their condition progress much more aggressively with too much screen time. This is because the eyes are forced to overexert themselves at an unnatural distance and eye level, thereby encouraging the eyeballs to elongate. Unfortunately, this change in shape causes the retina to stretch and thin, thereby affecting how images are perceived. Over time, this stretching can become so pronounced that pressure behind the eye is heightened, causing blindness due to retinal detachment. Now, while screen time doesn’t always lead to such drastic outcomes for those with prescriptions, the ocular strain still causes universal fatigue that can worsen existing eye conditions.
Screen time eye safety tips for those with prescriptions
While the simplest way to prevent screen time from worsening eye prescriptions is to cut down, this is much easier said than done. Fortunately, there are ways to safeguard one’s eyes when considering screen use and prescriptions. The first way to do so is to look into protective lens filters. For example, blue light glasses work well here because they use special blockers specifically designed to address the potential ocular threats of the light waves the devices emit. Online retailer Eyebuydirect’s selection of blue light glasses shows how they protect the user from blue light between 400 and 455nm, which is believed to cause ocular fatigue and aging. As such, they can improve eye clarity with prescriptions without leaving the organs vulnerable to outside factors.
Similarly, contact lens users can try those with extra moisturizing properties. Because of their subtlety and efficacy, contact lensesare some of the most popular corrective medical devices across all ages. Among many people, contacts are also helpful because of their unique benefits. As mentioned above, this can include moisturizing technologies. Makers like Alcon offer such features that can keep the eyes well-lubricated through use. This is valuable for screen time since it can counter the dryness that often occurs with device use, as blinking naturally slows. While these tips don’t mean that a person is totally invincible to the dangers of screen use, it can help prevent the exacerbation of prescriptions.