Our Eyes Weren’t Built for This
Smartphones. Laptops. Tablets. TVs. Whether we’re working, relaxing, or even socializing, screens are at the center of modern life. But while digital convenience is here to stay, our eyes may be struggling to keep up.Unlike other muscles in the body, your eyes rarely get a break in a screen-heavy world. That constant focus—especially at close distances—can take a toll on your vision and ocular health over time. At Everett Optometry, we’re seeing more and more patients reporting symptoms tied directly to prolonged digital device use.
So, what exactly happens to your eyes when you're plugged in around the clock?
Digital Eye Strain: Just the Beginning
Many people experience digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, after just two hours of screen use. Common symptoms include:
- Eye fatigue or soreness
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
While these symptoms often improve with rest or screen breaks, frequent episodes can lead to chronic discomfort and even signal deeper issues.
Long-Term Risks of Prolonged Screen Use
The effects of screen use don’t always go away with a good night’s sleep. Over time, high screen exposure can contribute to:Early-onset myopia (nearsightedness) – Especially in children who spend more time on screens and less time outdoors.
- Reduced tear production – Leading to chronic dry eye syndrome, which can permanently affect comfort and clarity.
- Light sensitivity and visual fatigue – Due to overexposure to artificial lighting and glare.
- Increased risk of eye misalignment – Especially with excessive near work and lack of eye movement.
- In some cases, uncorrected refractive errors or binocular vision problems can worsen when compounded by digital habits.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Vision
The good news: you don’t have to ditch your devices to save your sight. With a few intentional changes and regular care, you can protect your eyes in the digital age.Practice the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Adjust your environment: Reduce glare, adjust brightness, and keep screens at eye level and arm’s length.
- Use blue light filters: Either built into your devices or as a coating on your lenses.
- Blink more: It sounds simple, but screens cause us to blink less—leading to dryness.
- Take outdoor breaks: Natural light and long-distance focusing help balance digital eye use.
- Schedule annual eye exams: Especially if you use screens more than 4–6 hours a day.
How Everett Optometry Can Help
At Everett Optometry, we combine old-fashioned patient care with **state-of-the-art diagnostics** to monitor your eye health in a digital-first world. Whether you’re dealing with symptoms now or want to prevent future problems, our team will tailor a plan that works for your lifestyle.We offer:
- Blue light–filtering and anti-fatigue lenses
- Dry eye evaluations and treatments
- Neurolens® for alignment-related strain
- Customized vision care for digital professionals, students, and families
Your Eyes Are Your Future—Let’s Keep Them Healthy
Screens may be here to stay, but long-term eye problems don’t have to be. With the right habits and regular professional care, you can enjoy your digital life without compromising your vision.Book your next eye exam with Everett Optometry today—and give your eyes the future they deserve.