CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The amount of time spent on digital devices has dramatically increased due to remote work and distance learning brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some studies estimate children are now spending an average of 13 hours per day on digital devices. Health experts say this prolonged screen time can contribute to digital eye strain and an increased risk of nearsightedness among the younger population.
In recognition of Low Vision Awareness Month, health care professionals are encouraging everyone to take extra precautions when working or learning from home, and recommending checkups to ensure your eyes stay healthy and clear.
The following tips from Dr. Michelle Bucknor, Chief Medical Officer of UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina, can help in reducing you and your child’s risk of digital eye strain and identifying the warning signs of potential issues.
Reduce the risk of digital eye strain
Digital eye strain may be caused by prolonged use of computers or smartphones, potentially causing symptoms such as sore eyes, headache, or neck pain. To help reduce the risk, children should:
- Keep computer screens at least 30 inches away from their eyes
- Rest their eyes every 20 minutes
- Blink frequently to avoid dry eyes
Practice the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds and look at something 20 feet away. Getting outside and away from digital screens may also reduce the risk of nearsightedness. Also, look for digital devices that include blue-lightblocking technology or obtain glasses with premium anti-reflective coating.
Look for warning signs of eye issues
Up to 80% of what children learn is through their eyes, so the ability to see clearly is important for academic performance. Sometimes children may not complain if their vision isn’t normal, so it’s important to look for possible warning signs such as:
- Squinting while reading or watching television
- Difficulty hitting or catching a ball while playing sports
- Issues watching 3D movies such as discomfort or dizziness
These potential warning signs may indicate an underlying vision problem that might require glasses or other treatments from an eye care professional.
Get a comprehensive eye exam
A child’s first comprehensive eye exam should occur between 6 months and 12 months, at age three and before entering school at age five or six. It’s important to remember that a school’s vision screening is not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam, as screenings usually focus on measuring acuity levels and might miss common conditions such as poor eye alignment, focusing problems and farsightedness. Plus, a comprehensive eye exam may uncover other health conditions not usually associated with the eyes, including diabetes and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
For more tips and information, you can also visit the American Optometric Association or the National Eye Institute.
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