By Oliver Mwanko
Screen
headaches and migraine episodes can impact your personal and professional life.
Not only do they limit your ability to complete work tasks, but the throbbing
pain can also interfere with social obligations and time with friends and
family.
And when you
factor in the hours we spend browsing the internet, attending Zoom meetings,
following the 24-hour news cycle, checking email, or trying to beat an
unbeatable game, it makes sense that too much time in front of a screen takes a
toll on our health.
This is
why one needs a photochromatic, blue light blocking glasses that contain a two
in one lens.
They combine photochromic lenses which help
block the UV rays from the sun and reduce the exposure to sunlight.
The tint
when outside during the day and are clear indoors. The second part of the lens
is the blue light filter which filters out blue light emitted by screens making
it comfortable for screen users to use their devices comfortably for long hours
during the day.
Photochromatic,
blue light blocking glasses are available as prescription or nonprescription,
so you can wear them even if you don’t normally need to wear glasses.
Since
overexposure to blue light has been known to affect our circadian rhythm, using
photochromic blue light filtering glasses may also improve your ability to sleep
better at night, which makes you feel better during the day!
How do I know if I have digital eye strain?
Some of
the vision problems associated with the use of computers have been attributed
to poor ergonomic factors compliance.
According to the data published by
African Journal Online, It is estimated that anywhere between 75 to 90 per cent
of computer users suffer from digital eye strain. Many of those reported
experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain, which may include:
- Blurred
or double vision - Dry,
red or watery eyes - Eye
irritation or soreness - Increased
sensitivity to light - Loss
of focus - Headaches
- Insomnia
Ways of alleviating eye strain?
Eye strain
is not only caused by the overuse of screens but also by prolonged periods of
reading and straining to see in certain lighting.
It can result in tired eyes,
redness, dryness, headaches and neck and back pain. Here are some tips to help
reduce these problems:
Check your
lighting: Eye strain can be caused by bright office lighting or light coming in
through windows.
Close
blinds where possible and turn your computer so the light is to the side
instead of in front or behind. Use lower voltage bulbs and make sure your
ambient lighting is about half as bright as the average office.
Overhead
fluorescent lights can cause challenges to the eyes for many office workers,
but halogen or indirect incandescent lamps may be easier on the eye.
Set up your desk properly
Your screen
should be about 20-30 inches away from your face, or arm’s length. The top of
your monitor should be at eye level.
Adjust
your display settings: The brightness of your screen should be around the same
brightness level as your surroundings.
Ensure the text is at a comfortable size
when reading, so be sure to zoom in to avoid straining.
Eye exercises
Blink
regularly (it moistens your eyes), take regular breaks and remember to look
away from the screen. It may sound obvious, but we spend hours forgetting to
even look up, too absorbed in our work.
The 20-20-20 rule
When using
digital devices, aim to look away from your screen every 20 minutes for at
least 20 seconds and look at something at least 20 feet away. turn your gaze
towards the distance (out of a window if possible) .Protect your eyes: Wear
computer glasses.
Take breaks
Walking
away periodically will have the double benefit of reducing your time in front
of your screen as well as stretching your legs.
Regular Eye Exams
Regular
eye exams help you keep your eye health in check and ensure your problems
aren’t worse than normal eye strain.
It also
gives you a great opportunity to talk to an expert about your habits and eye
health! Risks associated with too much screen time
