With the rise of digital devices, more and more people are spending their days staring at screens. While this may be necessary for many jobs, prolonged computer use can have negative effects on your eyes.

Here are some of the dangers of prolonged computer use on your eyes:.

1. Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) encompasses a range of eye problems that result from staring at a screen for prolonged periods. Symptoms of CVS include eye strain, blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain.

Daily computer use can cause CVS, and symptoms can become more severe as the hours add up. In some cases, CVS can even lead to long-term eye damage.

2. Blue Light Exposure

Most digital devices emit blue light, a type of high-energy visible (HEV) light. Blue light exposure can disrupt your sleep cycle by inhibiting the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

Studies have also suggested that blue light exposure can increase the risk of macular degeneration, a degenerative eye disease that can lead to permanent vision loss.

3. Decreased Blink Rate

The average person blinks approximately 15 times per minute. However, when staring at a screen, our blink rate can drop to as low as five times per minute.

This decreased blink rate can cause dry eyes, as tears evaporate more quickly without regular blinking. Dry eyes can be uncomfortable, and in severe cases, can lead to blurred vision or eye infections.

4. Eyestrain and Fatigue

Staring at a screen for prolonged periods can also lead to eyestrain and fatigue.

Our eyes are designed to focus at different distances, and looking at a screen that’s only a foot or two away can cause our eye muscles to work harder than necessary. This can lead to eye fatigue and a decrease in productivity due to discomfort.

5. Poor Posture

Prolonged computer use can also lead to poor posture, which can cause neck and shoulder pain. When working on a computer, it’s important to maintain proper posture by sitting up straight and positioning your screen at eye level.

This can help reduce the risk of musculoskeletal discomfort and pain.

6. Increased Risk of Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common condition that causes objects in the distance to appear blurry. Studies have shown that children who spend more time indoors on screens are at a greater risk of developing myopia.

While the relationship between computer use and myopia is still being studied, it’s important to encourage children to limit their screen time and take breaks to rest their eyes.

7. Digital Eye Strain

Digital Eye Strain is a term used to describe a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. Symptoms of digital eye strain include dry eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain.

While digital eye strain is often temporary and can be remedied with breaks and other eye care measures, prolonged exposure to screens can lead to long-term eye damage.

8. Poor Quality Screens

The quality of your computer screen can also play a role in eye strain and fatigue. Screens that are too bright, too dim, or have glare can cause discomfort and make it more difficult to see what’s on the screen.

Investing in a high-quality computer screen or using anti-glare filters can help reduce eye strain and improve your overall computer experience.

9. Lack of Blue Light Filters

Many digital devices now come equipped with blue light filters, which can help reduce the negative effects of blue light exposure. However, not all devices have this feature, and some people may not be aware of how to activate it.

Adding a blue light filter to your device or investing in blue light blocking glasses can help reduce your risk of eye damage from blue light exposure.

10. Not Taking Breaks

One of the most important factors in preventing eye damage from computer use is taking breaks. The 20-20-20 rule, which suggests taking a break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.

Additionally, taking longer breaks to stretch and move your body can help reduce neck and shoulder pain and improve your overall well-being.