Digital Eye Strain – the “Computer Eye Syndrome”

You probably know it yourself: After a long day at the computer screen, your eyes are red or burning. Often there are also headaches, blurred vision and similar complaints. Here we explain the underlying reasons and how blue light protection can prevent these problems from arising.

PRiSMA Know How

What is Digital Eye Strain

Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome describes common symptoms that occur after using digital devices (primarily computers, tablets, and smartphones). The eye is directly affected when tired, burning and red eyes occur. In addition, blurred vision and neck pain as well as headaches are also considered to be relevant complaints. Several studies conclude in surveys that between 50% and 75% of VDU (visual display unit) users are affected by this problem. The different symptoms behind digital eye strain arise from different stress factors.

The bright light from computer screens has a strong blue content, and we look directly into it for hours. In addition, it is also not a steady source of light. Computer screens often flicker at frequencies that we cannot consciously perceive, but which exert massive stress on our eyes and nervous system.

While concentrating on computer work or scrolling on a tablet, we often forget to blink sufficiently. This promotes dry eyes and the associated discomfort.

Posture at the computer, especially when working on a laptop, is also not conducive to good health, and can thus contribute to the discomfort.

PRiSMA Tips

How to Prevent Digital Eye Stress?

Blink more often It sounds so easy, but it’s not, because blinking is an unconscious process. A sticky note on the screen might help.
The 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, stop screen time for 20 seconds, and focus on something at least 20 feet (7 m) away.
Adjust text size Set the screen resolution so that you can read texts without effort.
Indirect light for room lighting Avoid lamps that shine directly on the screen. The reflection further impedes correct vision. Indirect incandescent light with a regenerating red component is the optimal supplementary lighting for working on a PC.
Correct posture Ensure a healthy, relaxed posture and sufficient distance from the screen. When working on a laptop, an external keyboard can help optimize both typing ergonomics and screen position.
Wear screen glasses Blue light protective glasses for time spent in front of the screen not only reduce blue light exposure, but also increase contrast and thus visual comfort.