We tend to carry some form of ‘screen’ everywhere we go, and it has sadly become the only constant in our busy lives. Digital products are everywhere… in our homes, places of work and even at our gyms. Studies show that too much screen time can be harmful to our health, but it can be difficult to avoid them.
It may not be possible to step away from your screens at work, but could you look at reducing your screen usage in your leisure time, perhaps whilst at home or at the gym. For example, rather than consuming the news via your phone or tablet, could you pick up a newspaper? If you cannot avoid screen time, it is important to get in regularly for your eye exam Calgary to make sure your eyes are not deteriorating. Over time, excessive screen time could result in blurred vision. If this is the case for you, it might be worth looking into laser eye surgery if the problem is starting to worsen. If you want to know the prices of that sort of eye surgery, you could always visit this page here to learn more. Read our guide below for more insight into the health effects of too much screen time and ways to take a more mindful approach.
Extended screen time causes your eyes to work harder
Everyone is aware that spending long hours in front of the screen is unhealthy, but not all will know that it can actually lead to illness. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is also known as digital eye strain and caused by prolonged periods of looking at electronic devices such as computers, tablets and phones. The syndrome can result in several symptoms including:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Neck and shoulder pain
But why does this occur?
When the eyes spend extended periods of time looking at a screen, they are forced to work harder. Unlike reading from a book or a newspaper, in which the words are more distinguished and sharply defined, the contrast on a screen is significantly reduced and the likes of glare bouncing back from the screen poses more of a threat to an uninterrupted view.
Those who already suffer from poor vision and use eye-sight correction such as glasses or contact lenses are the most likely to be affected by CVS. Studies have found that even those who don’t usually require a general eye prescription may benefit from glasses specifically designed for use in front of the screen to prevent damage.
CVS can be treated through the administration of solution although often simply adjusting the way you view your screen can owe to a reduction in damage to the eye. Simple changes, such as altering your display settings, regularly exercising your eyes and taking frequent breaks from staring at the screen can all prevent the strain caused. Most employers should also have guidelines instructing you on how to set up your workstation appropriately.
Put aside your phone and tablet in exchange for a book
With all the technological advancements, it almost seems like backtracking to suggest that you should put aside the phones and tablets in exchange for a book, but it’s not. Scientific research has shown that by reading from a physical book or newspaper as opposed to an e-book or your digital copy, you absorb more information. This owes to two main reasons. Firstly, you get less distracted, mostly due to the fact the internet isn’t right at your fingers, and secondly, having the material in your hands helps you visualize just how much you’ve read.
Similarly, if you’ve been working in a job all day that involves focusing on a computer screen and you’re equating to that aforementioned 1,700 hours, then use the evenings to give your eyes a rest. Findings suggest that using a blue light before sleep can disrupt your melatonin and circadian cycles, making the process of getting to sleep a whole lot harder. On the other hand, reading some print is deemed an age-old remedy for those struggling with getting some shut-eye. If you do have to use a screen, you may find some relief by putting on blue light glasses to help with easing the effect on the eyes.
No one is proposing that we scrap all the digital technologies that make our day-to-day life so much better, however, it is worth reassessing the time spent looking at a screen and whether it essential – looking at the same posts repeatedly isn’t.
Turn your phone onto airplane mode at 9 pm, keep track of your time spent on social media, and take in the view straight ahead as opposed to looking down.
Article provided by Where Trade Buys, a UK company with expertise in book printing.
