Because of the epidemic and necessity for physical distance, students undoubtedly had to spend more time on their computer during the 2020/2021 school year. While the symptoms of eye stress are shared among computer users, there are steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort of your children at home.
Computer vision syndrome
Prolonged exposure to the screen is unlikely to cause permanent eye damage but may lead to unwanted symptoms, including:
- Blurred or double vision
- Dry eyes
- Cramps
- Headache
- Pain in neck and shoulders
- Red or burnt eyes
Computer vision syndrome (CVS), often known as digital eye strain, may be present in your child if they show some of these symptoms. CVS occurs because our eyes respond differently to a computer screen than to printed documents. Why?
- The characters are not well defined.
- The contrast between the images and the background is less.
- Many people wear glasses that are not specifically designed for computer use.
Computer glasses and blue light blocking glasses
If you notice symptoms of CVS in your children after a few weeks of virtual learning, consult an ophthalmologist to assess and rule out the need for glasses.
Computer glasses
Your child’s eye doctor may recommend computer eyeglasses designed to focus the eyes on computer screens specifically. Some ordinary glasses do not fit the field of view or angle of the computer screen. Children can tilt their heads to see different screen parts, putting pressure on their back and neck.
Sunscreen protector and blue light blocking glasses
Computer glasses are not created equal to prevent blue light from reaching computer screens from the eye. You can buy non-graduated blue glass and add anti-blue polish to your computer glasses. Some manufacturers also produce blue screen protectors for screens, phones, and tablets.
Blue light is a short-lived high-energy light that can pass through the eye’s cornea and reach the retina. Although there is no compelling proof that blue light causes lasting retinal damage, blue-blocking glasses prevent most or all blue light from reaching the eye.
You can always get Eyeglasses online with a virtual try-on for you and your kids. SmartBuyGlasses, a prominent online eyewear shop delivering in over twenty-one countries, is devoted to providing you with the best eyeglass lenses. They offer a unique selection of options at an affordable price without compromising lens or frame quality.
Top ways to reduce digital eye strain
Ophthalmologists recommend the following steps to avoid getting the victim of CVS.
Blink and use artificial tears.
Of course, it flashes 15 times per minute. When we look at a computer screen or other digital device, we see semi-frequency network connections. Blink lubricates the eyes naturally and prevents them from drying out. Post a visual hint like a note on your child’s computer screen to remind them to blink more often.
Use the 20-20-20 rule.
Set the child to one hour every 20 minutes. Keep your eyes 6 meters from the computer screen and watch for 20 seconds when the timer is off. And ask your child to take a 15-minute screen break after two hours of continuous computer use.
Adjust screen brightness and glare
Looking at a screen brighter than the surrounding area puts pressure on your eyes. Adjust the screen brightness according to the environment. Using a matte screen on your monitor can help reduce glare.
If you still find CVS symptoms, then it’s better to consult an ophthalmologist.
