In this modern world, people are becoming more addicted to their electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and other digital devices especially their usage is increasing under the low light environment. If you are such a low-light user of electronic devices have you ever imagined that this habit would influence your vision, if not then this time unleash the truth. Of course, the usage of electronic devices couldn’t be prevented but their usage under low light could be minimized at least. Even though everyone knows that this habit can affect their eye health, they can’t reduce it to make them aware of the potential effects it can bring about in their future vision. The below content is discussed, reading it out!
The science behind digital eye strain
Eye strain most common thing people would have experienced due to the over usage of digital screens their symptoms may include,
- Eye discomfort and fatigue
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
In such cases, when you are using electronic devices in a dark environment the symptoms are going to be doubled due to the exposure to the high contrast of light between the dark environment and bright screen. Because of this contrasting environment, your eye starts working harder to keep you focused which may lead to increased eye strain and discomfort, sometimes the teary eyes.
Blue light exposure
One of the major concerns regarding digital screens is their blue light. They are high-energy visible light that could penetrate inside your eye. In that case, the research studies suggest that prolonged usage of these bright screens in a dark environment can damage the production of a sleep hormone called melatonin, which disrupts the quality of sleep and also other related health issues.
The impact on eye health
Even though no evidence using digital screens for a longer time could cause permanent damage to your eyes, it could lead to temporary discomfort at the same time it will worsen the condition for existing eye conditions. Get to know how
1. While you are using the digital screens in the low light area your pupil will dilate to let the light in, on continuous usage your eyes keep adjusting to the contrasting light levels in that case it will increase eye strain and also fatigue.
2. While you are staring at the bright screen slowly your blink rate will reduce because of the concentration on the thing you are looking at, due to this your eyes start getting dry and irritated. The effect is going to exacerbate in the dark because already your eye is working hard to make you see.
3. Due to overexposure to blue light the amount of melatonin is going to decrease as a result your sleep cycle is going to get disturbed. Prolonged poor sleep can trigger various health issues including severe eye strain.
Preventative measures and healthy habits
While you are using the digital screens in the dark remember it is not ideal but if you want to use them take the steps that could minimize the risks and protect your eye health.
- The first thing is to adjust the screen brightness most people use them with maximum brightness which is not a good thing for your eyes so focus on it.
- Try to use the blue light filters, most of the devices come with a night mode option which could minimize the blue light emission.
- Keep your devices at a maximum distance as much as you are keeping them close the exposure of blue light will increase so at least keep them at arm’s length distance.
- Even though you are watching or seeing the most interesting things, don't forget to blink. As much as you blink your eye won’t get dry. If necessary you can prefer artificial tears to keep your eyes moist.
- The most effective rule you have to follow is between every 20 minutes take a 20-second break and look at the object that is far away at least 20 feet away. This simple exercise can minimize eye strain and fatigue.
Book your eye test from The Eye Foundation.
Using electronic devices cannot be prevented in this digital era but you can properly use them. Remember those rules you have to follow while you are using them in a dark environment and get proper eye examinations between proper intervals from The Eye Foundation to ensure your eye health goodness.
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