BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP
*Flail*
BLINK BLINK BLINK
Your first conscious action of the day: awkwardly flounder for your smartphone to stop the dreadful noise.
Sound familiar? According to The Vision Council’s Digital Eye Strain Report, using your phone as an alarm is standard procedure for around 55% of us.
*Breathe*
BLINK BLINK BLINK
Sit up, wipe eye goobers away, half-heartedly debate the consequences of calling in sick to today’s required adulting. Check phone notifications to clear the icons.
Ok, cool… the world didn’t fall apart overnight.
BLINK BLINK BLINK
Silent internal tantrum over having to leave the warmth of the blanket, check Facebook, check email, check current weather conditions…
BLINK BLINK BLINK
*Feet on the floor*
BLINK BLINK BLINK
In today's digital age, it's no surprise that cell phones have become an essential part of our morning routine. From the moment we wake up, we rely on our smartphones to keep us informed and connected. And it doesn't stop there - throughout the day, we find ourselves spending even more time in front of digital screens, whether it's at work on our computers or at home on our tablets.
But it's not just about work and productivity. Our cell phones have evolved into multi-functional devices that cater to our every need. They serve as our social planners, gaming consoles, recipe books, calculators, and even fitness trackers. With a world of information at our fingertips, we can settle debates, plan our social lives, and find answers to just about anything in an instant. Need to confirm if Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson was in that movie? A quick search on your phone will settle the argument.
However, all this screen time comes at a cost. Many of us experience digital eyestrain or fatigue as a result of constantly staring at screens. Headaches and blurry vision are common complaints at the end of a long day. It's something that most people don't initially consider, but the amount of time we spend on our devices throughout the day can take a toll on our vision.
Thankfully, there are steps we can take to alleviate these symptoms. Doctors recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a break and focus on an object approximately 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It's like stretching your legs for your eyes, giving them a chance to rest from the constant close-range focus. Additionally, holding your digital devices at arm's length can help reduce strain on your eyes.
Another factor to consider is lighting. Dimming your computer's screen or using lamps instead of overhead lighting can help decrease screen glare and minimize eye strain.
At The Rochester Eye & Laser Center, we understand the impact that device habits and screen time can have on your vision. That's why we encourage you to schedule an annual eye exam with us. It's the perfect opportunity for us to check in, discuss your device usage, and ensure your eyes are in optimal health.
So take a moment to prioritize your eye health and give us a call today at 585-232-2560. Your eyes will thank you!
Have you considered LASIK to get rid of those pesky glasses and contacts? Learn more and ask all your questions about LASIK at our Free Virtual LASIK Seminar.