Too Much Screen Time? 5 Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy Despite Long Hours

In today’s digital world, frequent eye issues have become common. Dry eyes, eye strain, and increased prescription strength in children under 10 are some of the problems exacerbated by excessive screen time. Promoting eye health is essential to mitigating these issues.

Digital screens are ubiquitous, affecting our daily lives more than we may realize. Here are some tips on how to protect your eyes and alleviate symptoms of excessive screen use.

5 Ways to Protect Your Eyes From Excessive Screen Time

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
   • Giving your eyes regular breaks from digital devices is one of the best ways to preserve eye health. The 20-20-20 rule suggests that you should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes you spend on a device. This simple exercise relaxes eye muscles and reduces strain.
2. Stay Hydrated
   • Drinking enough water is another crucial component for eye health. Dehydration can cause dryness and discomfort in the eyes. Make sure to sip on plenty of water throughout the day to keep your eyes hydrated.
3. Use Larger Displays
   • Whenever possible, switch to larger displays. Larger screens mean larger text and visuals, reducing the need for extended close-up viewing and intense focus.
4. Use Eye Drops
   • Those who suffer from chronic dry eyes should consider using lubricating drops. Use them only as recommended by a qualified eye specialist to maintain proper eye health and prevent further complications.
5. Get Sufficient Sleep
   • For people who spend a lot of time on screens, getting enough sleep is crucial. Sleep is essential for overall eye health. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep to promote the natural lubrication of the eyes and protect them from dryness.

By adopting these practices, you can prioritize and maintain your eye health in this digital era: giving your eyes regular breaks, using screens with proper lighting, maintaining distance between you and your screens, and limiting screen use before bed. These techniques not only support long-term eye health but also help ensure that your vision remains clear even after prolonged screen use.