Many children and adults alike have always wondered “Does Video Games make my eyes worse?” This question is very relevant and important in the age of digital devices. We will dive more into this topic today.
The main parts we will discuss are Computer Vision Syndrome, Irritation, Vision changes, and Tips on eye health with video games.
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
- This syndrome is due to overuse of digital devices in a day..
- Symptoms include redness, fatigue, headaches, dryness, and even trouble focusing
- Video games can be addicting at times and the lack of breaks is what causes CVS.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule in order to decrease tiredness when playing games.
- The 20-20-20 rule is looking at a distant object (about 20 feet away) for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This helps the eye reset and rest!
Irritation
- Dryness and irritation is common when playing video games.
- The lack of blinking decreases natural tear flow/balance in our eyes. This in turn can cause redness, blurriness, and even physical discomfort.
- The use of artificial tears (systane, refresh, etc) can help temporarily relieve the dryness induced.
- Only by taking breaks can we truly decrease the amount of irritation experienced.
Vision changes
- Studies have shown that kids between the ages of 7-10 are more likely to develop myopia (nearsightedness) when using prolonged digital devices.
- Taking a break from near activities every 20 minutes and just playing outside can be beneficial for your eye health.
- Parents might notice their children going closer to the TV or squint to see things farther away.
- Getting your comprehensive eye exam is a great way to monitor your eye health and prescription.
Health tips
- Video games are not always a bad thing. They are a great way to get creative and can help develop problem solving skills when done leisurely!
- In short, video games won’t make your eyes worse if you take precautions and breaks.
- Blue blocking glasses can be beneficial to some patients who have excessive screen time. The blue light from devices has been shown to interrupt the sleep cycle.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule daily in order to improve eye health.
- Routine eye care at your friendly optometrist office can detect changes in your vision.
We are Glimpse Eye Care and we are here to provide exceptional eye care in The Woodlands, Tomball, Houston, Spring, Creekside, and Conroe areas. Our eye doctors are determined to get you an eye prescription that will work for you! We would love to be your eye care provider :)
Call/Text us at 832-554-1100
Schedule online: https://glimpseeyecare.vsappointments.com/