Protect Your Eyes from Increased Screen Time
Our world is becoming increasingly digital, which means we can end up spending many hours of our day staring at a screen. While the growth of technology allows us to stay connected, it can put extra strain on our eyes.
On average, American workers spend around 7 hours a day on the computer. These long hours can cause increased visual demands on your eyes. To help ensure your eyes are healthy and working to the best of their ability, visit our team for a comprehensive eye exam. We’re here to help you find a solution for the uncomfortable symptoms of digital eye strain.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain is a group of vision-related problems that occur when your eyes get tired from prolonged and intense use viewing a digital screen. These screens can include your phone, tablet, or computer.
Looking at a screen is different than viewing a printed page. Images or words are usually not as sharply defined on a screen, and there is often a presence of glare or reflection. These factors put increased demands on your eyes and increase your likelihood of developing symptoms.An uncorrected refractive error, such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness), can also contribute to digital eye strain. By visiting your optometrist, you can ensure your prescription is up-to-date and avoid unnecessary strain on your eyes.
Causes & Symptoms
If you spend more than 2 or more consecutive hours a day using a digital screen, you may be at risk for digital eye strain. When the daily visual demands exceed your eye’s ability to constantly focus on an image, your eyes can begin to feel fatigued. Recognizing the causes and symptoms of digital eye strain can help address the issue to alleviate your discomfort.
Causes
The following factors can result in digital eye strain:
- Uncorrected vision problems
- Poor lighting
- Glare on the screen
- Poor posture
- Low blinking rate
- Improper viewing distance
Symptoms
Symptoms you may experience include:
- Eyes that feel tired
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Neck and shoulder stiffness
Tips for Viewing Your Digital Screen
Practicing good digital habits can help relieve your eyes from the strain. Effective ways you can help prevent digital eye strain include:
- Give your eyes a break—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to view an object at least 20 feet away. This is commonly referred to as the 20-20-20 rule.
- Remember to blink—when we become focused on a visual task, we often forget to blink. Frequent blinking will ensure your eyes stay well moisturized.
- Reduce glare—use an anti-glare screen cover or adjust your screen positioning to avoid light reflection can reduce strain on your eyes.
- Proper viewing distance—keeping your screen 15–20 degrees below eye level and 20–28 inches away from your eyes will allow for a comfortable viewing distance.
Find Your Solution
Digital eye strain symptoms aren’t permanent and can decrease with good screen habits and a correct, updated prescription.
Don’t let digital eye strain affect your day-to-day life. Visit us for a comprehensive eye exam today!
Our Location
Our practice is located in a converted house on the corner of Santa Clara Ave and Union Street. Street parking is available on either side of our practice. If you have any trouble finding us, give us a call. We can’t wait to see you!
Our Address
- 1801 Santa Clara Ave
- Alameda, CA 94501
Contact Information
- 510-521-2015
- 510-521-2123
- [email protected]
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday : 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday : 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday : 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: By Appointment
- Sunday: Closed
Closed for lunch 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Our Brands
Our Testimonials
I have been a patient of the Alameda Optometrist Group for years and have been extremely pleased. Thank you Dr Shelly Sheppard and staff for all your good care. Thank you Jan for always being so patient with me on deciding what frames look better. I highly recommend your office to anyone with optometric needs.
Judy Harris
Dr. Sheppard was very thorough in the examination and her staff was very helpful. There was three of us and they took care of all three of us with the same thoughtfulness and made sure we were comfortable. I would highly recommend Alameda optometrist to my family and friends.
Daniel Rodriguez
Nothing but the best every time I come here thank you all so much I love my glasses.
Chalice Ironside
AOG is like a good neighbour friendly type group. The facility is homey, orderly, and high covid-19 protected. One can tell the Drs. And staff are expertly trained as the service is efficient and courteous. Comfortable place.
Dr. Thomas Eischeid
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Alameda Optometric Group
- 1801 Santa Clara Ave
- Alameda, CA 94501
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P: 510-521-2015
[email protected]