With the increasing use of technology in our daily lives, concerns about the eye health becomes increasingly important. In fact, excessive use of electronic devices with screens, such as smartphones, tablets and computers, can lead to various visual problems. However, it is possible to minimise these negative effects through some good practices that we'll share in this article.

A study published in the scientific journal "Journal of Ophthalmology has shown that prolonged use of devices with screens can cause dry eye syndrome. The researchers explain that the light emitted by screens can affect tear production, leading to dry eyes. In addition, prolonged use of electronic devices can cause eye fatigue, headaches and blurred visiondue to overuse of our close focus mechanism (accommodation).

Another study published in "British Journal of Ophthalmology has shown that the excessive use of devices with screens can lead to an increase in myopia in children and adolescents. Prolonged exposure to artificial light emitted by screens and the continued use of our accommodation can cause an increase in the axial length of the eye, leading to an increase in myopia, according to the researchers.

In addition, prolonged use of these devices can affect the quality of sleep, which in turn can also affect eye health. Several studies show that exposure to blue light can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain's pineal gland that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Lack of adequate sleep can lead to dry, irritated eyes and visual fatigue. 

These are some of the negative effects caused by excessive use of electronic devices with screens. However, as already mentioned, there are several practices we can adopt that will help us minimise these effects and take better care of our eye health.

The first option is to try to reduce exposure time to screens. It's important to take frequent breaks throughout the day and limit the time you use devices with screens, especially before bed. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends "20-20-20 rule"This practice consists of looking at something at least 6 metres (20 feet) away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This practice causes the visual system to reset, relax and break the effort of accommodation we make in close-up tasks.

Adjust screen brightness and contrast to avoid excessive glare is a simple and effective practice. In addition, reducing exposure to blue light can be achieved through the night mode screens or the use of ophthalmic lenses with blue light filter.

Maintaining good posture while using devices with screens is also crucial. It's important to keep your eyes at the same height as the screen and ensure that it's at a comfortable distance. For those who need prescription glasses, lenses with good anti-reflective treatment can also help reduce eye strain.

Last but not least, a study published in the "Journal of American Medical Association Ophthalmology emphasised the importance of regular eye examinations to detect eye problems early, enabling more effective treatment and the prevention of more serious problems.

In short, it's important to adopt good practices to minimise the negative impact of technology on eye health:

• • Take frequent breaks throughout the day to rest your eyes
  • Adjust the screen brightness according to the ambient light
  • Use blue light filters
  • Keep an appropriate distance from the screen
  • Practising eye exercises to relieve eye strain
  • Regular consultations with a specialist to check eye health 

In conclusion, technology has brought many benefits to our lives, but it can also have a negative impact on eye health. Adopting good practices is fundamental to minimising these effects and maintaining good eye health, thus allowing us to enjoy the advantages that technology brings us without compromising our vision.

Find out more about our Solutions Lenses, designed to combat blue light filters: Prooptica Solution Lenses.

References:
Blue light has a dark side. Harvard Health Publishing.
Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side. Accessed on: 23 April 2023.
Yu, S., et al. The impact of digital devices on the eye. European Journal of Epidemiology, v. 34, p. 883-890, 2019.
Rosenfield, M. Computer vision syndrome: a review of ocular causes and potential treatments. Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics, v. 31, p. 502-515, 2011.