March is Workplace Wellness Month
March in North Texas is a beautiful time of year! Spring is, well, springing, and if you’ve got any students in your life, you’re on the home stretch to summer break! And if you’re someone who works, either in an office, a manufacturing setting or even remotely, you should know that March is also Workplace Eye Wellness Month.
Eye wellness is something we are passionate about at Ighani Eye Care. “A commitment to comprehensive eye care is the best safeguard for maintaining good vision and eye health at any stage of life,” said Dr. Farshid Ighani. “From eye exams and eye disease management to LASIK and modern cataract surgery, we want to be your trusted eye care provider in every season of life.”
Digital Eye Strain; What a Pain!
While working from home has many benefits, it has led to an increase in digital screen time for many remote workers and learners. All this screen time is hard on your eyes, so we want to use this opportunity to raise awareness of digital eye strain and provide tips on ways to decrease the effects of increased screen time.
Digital eye strain (sometimes called computer vision syndrome) is eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods. For most people, the level of discomfort increases with the amount of digital screen use.
The average American worker spends up to seven hours a day on the computer, either in the office or working from home. To help alleviate digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule; take a 20-second break to view something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.
Spotlight on Blue Light
There is growing evidence that blue light from LED and fluorescent lighting, as well as monitors, tablets and mobile devices, could negatively affect your vision over the long term. Prolonged exposure to blue light over time could damage retinal cells and cause vision problems such as age-related macular degeneration. It may also contribute to cataracts, eye cancer and growths on the clear covering over the white part of the eye.
Although more research is needed, we believe it is prudent to be proactive in protecting your eyes, especially if you are someone who spends a significant amount of time using digital screens. Most experts agree that digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome, affects about 50% of computer users. Symptoms include dry, irritated eyes and blurred vision.
There are special lens tints and coatings that can reduce the harmful impact of blue light. Additionally, you can minimize glare on the computer screen by using a glare reduction filter, repositioning the screen or even using a window covering like blinds or curtains. Also, keep your screen clean; dirt-free and remove fingerprints to decrease glare and improve clarity.
Make Eye Wellness a Priority Year-Round
Many eye conditions come with no early warning signs. An annual comprehensive eye exam enables early detection of vision problems such as macular degeneration, diabetic eye changes, glaucoma and more. Routine eye examinations are the best safeguard for maintaining good vision at any stage of life.
Dr. I is a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and Cataract and Refractive Specialist. Respected for his experience and skill in the medical management of many eye diseases and conditions, patients appreciate him most for his warmth and compassion. Dr. Brian Anding is also a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist with decades of experience in comprehensive eye care. We would be honored to serve you! Schedule an appointment today.
