If you have a problem with your eyes after working on a computer or other screens for a long time, it may be computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain. It manifests itself when the tasks exceed the ability of the eye to perform it comfortably.

Among the reasons:

• small font – characters on a smartphone are often smaller and less contrasty than text in a printed book;
• lighting – if the device’s screen is too bright or, conversely, dim, it can cause eye fatigue;
• reflection – reflections from artificial or natural light can affect the perception of information;
• ergonomics – most of us hold the smartphone too close to the face or at an inappropriate angle, which increases eye fatigue;
• rare blinking – when we are engrossed in reading or watching, we forget to blink, this can cause dry eyes;
• Uncorrected vision problems: Lack of diagnosis or incorrect correction can increase tension.

Can a smartphone impair eyesight?

People who are nearsighted or myopic see well at near and poorly at far distance. True, “far” can be a few meters away or 20-30 centimeters – it depends on the severity of myopia.

Scientists have yet to find a link between excessive smartphone use and myopia in adults ages 18 to 40, but more research is needed; It’s possible that smartphones are still dangerous for adults, too.

How can you help your eyes get less tired?

Unfortunately, during remote work involving the use of gadgets, for example, it is not always possible to put the smartphone aside and go for a walk to rest the eyes. Here’s what ophthalmologists recommend in this case:

• Blink! We normally blink about 15 times per minute and three times less when using any electronic device. So it’s worth making a conscious effort to wink at yourself. It may become a habit over time.
• If the feeling of dry eyes still persists, moisturize the eyes with special drops (artificial tears).
• Follow the “20-20-20” rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away from your smartphone or other device and stare at it for 20 seconds. Or look out the window more often.
• Wear special glasses that reduce eye strain. The lenses in glasses are designed to focus vision on closely spaced objects. The important thing is not to confuse them with blue filter lenses – they have no evidence that they are effective.
• Adjust the brightness and contrast of the device. Brightness must correspond to the illumination level – a screen that is too bright in the dark is blinding, and in daylight it is difficult to distinguish something too dim. Increasing the contrast will help reduce the pressure on the organs of vision.
• Avoid glare on the screen or at least reduce its amount. There are special anti-glare coatings and screens for this purpose.
• Maintain correct posture – do not bring the smartphone too close to your eyes, monitor the condition of the neck and shoulders, so as not to cause overload.

In addition, in order to protect eye health, it is beneficial for adults and children to move away from electronic devices more often and be in the fresh air, even if it is for a walk.