Does Screen Time Mean I Need More Frequent Eye Exams?

With digital devices now an essential part of everyday life, most of us are spending more time than ever in front of screens. Whether it’s for work, school, or leisure, this constant exposure can take a toll on your eyes. At Vision Solutions, we’re here to help you understand how screen use impacts your eye health and why regular eye exams are more important than ever.
 

How Does Prolonged Screen Time Affect Your Eyes?

Spending long hours staring at screens can lead to a condition known as digital eye strain, also referred to as computer vision syndrome. This condition is becoming increasingly common as more people rely on digital devices for work, school, and entertainment. When you're focused on a screen for extended periods, your eyes are forced to work harder to maintain focus. This added strain can result in symptoms such as blurred or double vision, headaches, dry or irritated eyes, neck and shoulder pain, and difficulty focusing.
 

One of the main reasons these symptoms occur is that screen use often takes place under less than ideal conditions, such as improper lighting, poor posture, or incorrect screen positioning. These factors can place additional strain on the eyes and contribute to fatigue. In addition, people tend to blink less frequently when using digital devices, which reduces tear production and leads to dryness and discomfort.
 

Prolonged screen time has also been linked to the increasing prevalence of myopia, or nearsightedness, particularly in children and young adults. Excessive near work can contribute to the elongation of the eyeball, a hallmark of myopia progression. Without regular monitoring, this condition can worsen over time, increasing the risk for more serious vision problems later in life.
 

Healthy Screen Time Habits to Protect Your Eyes

While reducing screen time may not be realistic for many, incorporating healthy habits can significantly reduce eye strain:
 

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Adjust your screen: Position your screen so it’s about arm’s length away and slightly below eye level.
• Use proper lighting: Avoid glare and make sure the light in the room is comfortable—not too bright or too dim.
• Use blue light filters: Many devices and glasses offer blue light filtering to reduce eye fatigue.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Essential

Even if you’re not currently experiencing vision problems, regular eye exams play a critical role in maintaining long-term eye health. Prolonged use of digital devices can subtly affect your vision over time, often without immediate symptoms.
 

During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist can detect early signs of digital eye strain and other vision concerns that may go unnoticed in day-to-day life. They can also evaluate how screen use is affecting your current prescription, ensuring your glasses or contact lenses are still providing the support your eyes need.
 

In addition, your eye doctor may recommend specialized lenses or treatments designed specifically for digital device users, such as blue light filtering or anti-reflective coatings. An exam also gives them the opportunity to check for underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, that can impact your vision.
 

If you use screens regularly for work, school, or entertainment, consider scheduling eye exams more frequently. Catching changes early allows you to manage symptoms more effectively and keep your eyes functioning comfortably and efficiently.
 

Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Eyes

With screens becoming a larger part of our lives, your eyes are working harder than ever. While healthy habits can reduce the impact of screen time, regular eye exams ensure any potential issues are caught and addressed early.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Vision Solutions to ensure your vision stays healthy and comfortable, no matter how much time you spend in front of a screen. Contact our office in Lamar (417) 682-3301, Nevada (417) 667-2560 or Webb City (417) 250-2828. Call a location near you to book an appointment today.