Students of all ages will likely see increased screen time as the school year begins. Whether it’s writing papers on laptops, using iPads for learning, or staying connected with friends through social media on cell phones, the amount of time spent looking at screens can quickly add up. Unfortunately, increased screen time can lead to digital eye strain, a condition that causes discomfort and vision problems. This blog will explore the effects of prolonged screen time and provide tips to help alleviate digital eye strain as the school year begins.

The Effects of Prolonged Screen Time

Digital eye strain, which is also known as computer vision syndrome, occurs when your eyes are exposed to screens for extended periods without adequate breaks. Common symptoms include:

Eye Fatigue: Feeling tired or strained eyes after looking at a screen for too long.
Dry Eyes: Reduced blinking while staring at screens can cause your eyes to dry out.
Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing on a screen, especially after prolonged use.
Headaches: Straining to see small text or graphics can lead to tension headaches.
Neck and Shoulder Pain: Poor posture while using digital devices can contribute to muscle discomfort.

These symptoms can be particularly troublesome for students, interfering with concentration, productivity, and overall comfort.

Tips for Combatting Digital Eye Strain

Here are some practical tips to help reduce the effects of digital eye strain during the school year:

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule:
- Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice can help reduce eye strain by relaxing your eyes.
Adjust Your Screen Settings:
- Ensure your screen is at eye level and about an arm’s length away. Adjust the brightness and contrast to match the lighting in your room to avoid excessive glare.
Use Blue Light Filters:
- Many devices have a night mode or blue light filter that reduces the amount of blue light emitted by screens. Blue light is known to contribute to digital eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns, so filtering it out can be beneficial.
Blink More Often:
- Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently while using screens. Blinking helps moisten your eyes and prevent dryness.
Take Regular Breaks:
- Besides following the 20-20-20 rule, ensure you’re taking longer breaks every hour to stretch, walk around, and give your eyes a break from screens.
Use Artificial Tears:
- Over-the-counter artificial tears can help keep your eyes lubricated and reduce dryness caused by prolonged screen use.
Maintain Good Posture:
- Sit with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the floor. Good posture reduces the risk of neck and shoulder pain associated with digital eye strain.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams:
- Visit your eye doctor regularly to monitor your eye health, especially if you experience persistent symptoms of digital eye strain.

Local Eye Doctors for Your Eye Health

To ensure your eyes are in good health and to address any concerns about digital eye strain, here’s a list of local eye doctors in each market:

1. Grand Forks, ND:
  - North Dakota Eye Clinic: Provides comprehensive vision tests and a wide range of eye care services. Visit their website for more information.
2. St. Cloud, MN:
  - Northway Eye & Contact Lenses Center: Offers full-service eye care, including exams, glasses, and contact lenses. Their website has more details.
3. Detroit Lakes, MN:
  - Morrison Eye Care: Specializes in comprehensive eye exams and personalized eye care. Visit their website for more information.
4. Alexandria, MN:
  - Eye Associates of Alexandria: Provides various services, from routine eye exams to eye disease treatment. More information can be found on their website.
5. Fergus Falls, MN:
  - InVision Eye Care: Offers thorough eye exams and various eyewear options. Visit their website for more details.
6. Winona, MN:
  - Winona Health Eye Care Center provides various services, including comprehensive eye exams, treatment of eye diseases, and more. Their website has more information.

Final Thoughts

As the school year begins and screen time increases, it’s essential to be proactive about preventing digital eye strain. By following these tips and regularly visiting your eye doctor, you can help protect your eyes and maintain good vision health throughout the school year.