How Long is Too Long?

The risks of Digital Eye Strain, also known as Computer Visions Syndrome, come with “over-use” or “over-exposure” to Blue Light. But what truly is over-exposure? How much screen time is too much screen time?

Studies have shown that those who consume Blue Light for more than 5 hours per day total are at great risk for Digital Eye Strain. Given that many of us use a computer for 8 to 10 hours for our work and, globally, we consume on average 4.4 hours of screen time for leisure, it is clear to see how rampant the risks for Digital Eye Strain are.

Of course, there are many, many factors that contribute to Digital Eye Strain. Everything from the type of lighting in an office, to the positioning of the office chair at the desk, or the couch position relative to the TV will affect the risk of Digital Eye Strain as well as the intensity of the symptoms. These symptoms, including a burning sensation in the eyes, blurry vision, dry eyes, and headache can range from the mild to the dramatic. Film-maker Sudhish Kamath reported that after a particularly intense “Netflix binge” he could barely see shapes and immediately went to see his doctor!

Because of the plethora of factors involved you may be more or less at risk for Digital Eye Strain than your peers, or also at different points throughout your day as you move from environment to environment. It is important to remember that around that three hour mark, you’re at risk for the more serious symptoms.

If you know that you are going to be using your digital device for more than five hours per day it’s important to take the following steps:

• Practice the 20/20/20 rule. Look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes  

• Consider investing in blue light filtering glasses.

• Download and use apps like f.lux and fadetop.