Did you know that Canadians spend almost 11 hours a day in front of a screen? From computers to tablets to smartphones to TVs, we rely heavily on electronic devices. But as convenient as these items are, using them for long periods can cause an uncomfortable eye condition called digital eye strain.
Digital eye strain is caused by your eyes exerting extra effort to maintain a clear image when viewing a digital screen. In other words, it’s not the devices that cause strain, but the stress put on your eyes and body while using them.
Having uncorrected vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness (farsightedness), or an eye muscle imbalance can make your eyes work harder than they should, increasing digital eye strain symptoms.
These symptoms aren’t specific to digital eye strain. If you experience any, please see us for a comprehensive eye exam to rule out the possibility of a more serious issue.
Although many activities, like reading, driving, or writing, can lead to eye strain, digital device use is one of the most common causes. Those who use computers or other digital devices for more than 2 hours in a row are at the greatest risk of developing digital eye strain.
Screen use is more likely to cause eye strain because:
Fortunately, there are no long-term consequences associated with eye strain. However, it can be uncomfortable and distracting.
Some simple lifestyle changes can help improve your comfort while using your favourite digital devices. Since extended device use is the main cause of eye strain then it stands to reason that giving your eyes a break from using these devices would help improve your eye comfort. Breaks from work are not only good for your eyes but for your overhead health as well.
To ensure you’re giving your eyes a break from screen time, Try following the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a break and look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This rest will give your eye muscles a chance to relax. It will also give you a chance to stretch, stand, give your body a break.
If you work at a desk or spend a lot of time on a computer, consider following proper workplace ergonomics. Ergonomics are designed to help you work safely by reducing the strain repeated or extended motions put on your body.
Help your body remain comfortable by setting your workspace up properly:
You can also perform some simple, workplace appropriate stretches to ease excessive stress put on your muscles from sitting all day.
If making these adjustments isn’t helping ease your discomfort, please call us and book an eye exam. Because digital eye strain symptoms are similar to other eye conditions, a comprehensive eye exam will allow us to rule out anything more serious.
Our clinic is located on Yonge Street, right beside the Royal Bank. We’re on the second floor, so we are not wheelchair accessible at this time. But, if you have a stroller, please call ahead, and we would be happy to help you up the stairs.
Located in Yonge Lawrence Village
*please call to confirm hours
My daughter did Vision Therapy with April, who was fantastic! It was life changing for my daughter. School was exhausting for her, reading was challenging and not fun – everything was hard and emotional. The Vision Therapy helped my daughter tremendously! She is now so much calmer and more confident at school. She actually now enjoys school and is an avid reader. We didn’t just notice the difference, her teachers noticed the difference as well.
It was challenging to find a program in Toronto for my daughter that didn’t involve year long wait lists. Dr Awadia and her team were incredibly accommodating and supportive through the whole process.
My daughter has been seeing Dr. Awadia for a few years. She did vision therapies at Dr. Awadia’s clinic, which helped her significantly in her reading speed. We are so thankful for Dr. Awadia’s expertise
I’m so glad I found this place, all of the staff are incredible. I’ve been here for an emergency visit as well as regular appointments and they have taken fantastic care of me every time. I have nothing but positive things to say about Dr Awada and the team. HIghly recommend!
Dr. Awadia was great with both my kids, but I was more impressed that she was able to get my 3 year old to sit through the various eye exams. She’s extremely patient and has many different ways to engage the younger set. Really happy to have found her and in my local neighbourhood.
From the moment I walked through the door, the staff were very friendly and helpful. Dr Awadia and her staff were very thorough, both, in the tests and in their explanation of the procedures and the results. I could not have had a better experience. I will definitely recommend them and they have earned a customer for life.
Yonge Eyes Optometry
