It’s a typical summer day in Columbus. Mom’s working remotely, Dad’s catching up on emails, the kids are toggling between online summer programs and games—and everyone’s squinting at a screen. As convenient as this digital lifestyle may be, it can take a real toll on your eyes. If your family is experiencing tired, dry, or blurry vision, you’re not alone. You may be dealing with digital eye strain.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain—also known as computer vision syndrome—is a group of eye and vision issues linked to prolonged screen use. Symptoms often include:
- Eye fatigue or discomfort
- Blurred or double vision
- Headaches
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Neck and shoulder pain
These symptoms tend to increase the longer you spend looking at screens. They’re often caused by a combination of factors: reduced blinking, glare, poor lighting, improper screen distance, and continuous near work.
Why Columbus Families Are Especially Affected
With many households in Columbus juggling remote work, online schooling, and endless digital entertainment, the average screen time can skyrocket—especially during long, hot summer days spent indoors. These habits can lead to cumulative strain on the eyes, particularly when families rely heavily on digital devices without incorporating enough breaks or eye-friendly ergonomics.
For contact lens wearers, the issue can be even more pronounced. Staring at a screen tends to reduce blink rate, which dries out the lenses and amplifies discomfort. Children and teens are also at greater risk of myopia progression, a condition that can be influenced by long periods of near work.
Tips to Alleviate Eye Fatigue
- Practice the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Blink Often: Consciously remind yourself to blink while using screens.
- Adjust Your Lighting: Minimize glare and use warm-toned bulbs to reduce light sensitivity.
- Use Night Mode or Blue Light Filter Apps: These settings can reduce harsh light exposure.
- Upgrade Your Eyewear: Ask about lenses with anti-reflective coatings and blue light filters for better visual comfort.
Get Expert Support from Jones Vision Polaris
At Jones Vision Polaris, we’re committed to helping your family maintain healthy, comfortable vision in today’s digital world. We provide comprehensive eye exams for children and adults, designed to identify and address digital eye strain, dry eyes, and myopia.
For patients using contact lenses, we offer personalized fittings and advanced materials that improve hydration and comfort during screen use. Our team may also suggest lifestyle adjustments or even refer patients for vision therapy if symptoms indicate a need for focused treatment.
Protect Your Family’s Eyes—Today and Tomorrow
Digital eye strain doesn’t have to be part of your everyday life. With the right habits and professional support, you can make screen time more comfortable for the entire household.
Schedule a family eye exam with Jones Vision Polaris today, and ask about our blue-blocking lenses and contact lens comfort options. Your eyes deserve a break—even if your screen time doesn’t.