Moreover, exposure to this light for a longer duration even with a low intensity can induce photochemical damage. Exposure to blue light (400–500 nm) can be harmful to the retina. Beside other perils, almost all TVs, computers and smartphones emit High-Energy Visible (HEV) light or more commonly known ‘Blue’ light. While adding convenience to our lives, this tech-surge is threatening our well-being and our eyes have paid the greatest price. No wonder more than 30% of the urban population complain of blurred vision, itchy & red eyes, tiredness and stiff neck. Numerous studies have shown that the average urban adult spends more than 6 hours a day staring at the screen of gadgets. Given the massive growth in digital device usage in recent years, many millions of individuals of all ages are at risk of DES. It is characterised by a range of eye and vision-related symptoms and has been a recognised health problem for over 20 years.Īccording to the American Optometric Association, the most common symptoms associated with DES are eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and pain in the neck and shoulders.
According to a 2018 study published in the British Medical Journal Open Ophthalmology, it is suggested that the prevalence of digital eye strain could be as high as 50% and more among computer users. How Computers/Mobile Phones Are Affecting Your Eyes?ĭigital eye strain (DES), also known as computer vision syndrome, encompasses a range of ocular and visual symptoms. Before we list down tips to protect your eyes, here’s what you need to know. While adding convenience to our lives, this tech surge is threatening our well-being and our eyes have paid the greatest price. Electronic devices have taken over our lives at work and play. Papers have been replaced by computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones. Over the past decade, we have witnessed a gradual shift in our ‘focus’.
Isn’t this the scene that we come across on a day to day basis?
The last time when I travelled my train and looked at the crowd around, I was surprised to spot 8 out of every 10 people in the train staring at their mobile phones. The other day when I went to my aunt’s place, her little one was busy watching cartoon shows on her mobile instead of going out and playing with her friends.Īfter spending 9 hours glued to the computer screen, the only way to relax and rejuvenate our mind and body is to watch videos or chat with friends on mobile.