4 Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Working Professionals
Your eyes can get worn out just as fast as any other part of your body. And they need a break too!
Americans spend more than seven hours a day staring at a computer screen and other digital devices. So what impact does screen time have on your body and brain? Approximately 58% of working professionals experience computer vision syndrome. In the long run, too much screen time can lead to permanent damage to the eyes.
Here’s a Look at the Eye Problems Digital Caused by Digital Devices:
1. Blurry Vision
In a brimming professional life, you often end up spending way too much time staring in front of a computer. But that’s not it. You check your phone throughout the day and when you get home, you spend a few hours on the couch watching your favorite television show. These habits can lead to symptoms including blurry vision, irritation, dry eyes, and eye strain.
2. Poor Sleep Quality
Most people use digital devices right from the start of the day all the way until dusk sets in. But that’s not it. You’re on your phone way past your bedtime. When the light comes into your eyes, it doesn’t allow your natural melatonin to come out. Melatonin is a hormone that helps control your sleep. While any type of light can suppress melatonin release, the blue light emitted from electronics has a stronger impact. And that keeps you even more awake than usual even if you’re trying to get some sleep. Unless you keep your phone away when you sleep, you will always be tempted by those pinning alerts.
3. Increased Risks of Diseases
Spending too much time on digital screens can also result in an increased risk of diseases. This usually happens because you are in a stationary position without much movement. Your lack of physical activity throughout the day is what leads to health problems with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.
4. Weight Issues
Watching TV for just two hours can increase your risk of weight gain. The real problem here is your lack of activity throughout the day even after sitting at the desk for an entire day.
If you’re facing any one of these issues, you’re not alone. Working professionals need to find a way to combat these problems without making way too many changes. Here’s a look at what you can do.
How to Treat the Above Issues and What Should You Do?
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Sitting in front of the computer screen can make your eyes feel tired and worn out. And while it’s not possible to get away from your desk every now and then, following the 20-20-20 rule is all you need to do! Look away every 20 minutes at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
2. Use a Matte Screen
Bright lights and plenty of natural light are great to work efficiently. But it’s not always the best for your eyes. Using a computer or laptop with a matte screen prevents the constant light and glare on your screen. Even if you’re working in close proximity to your screen, these matte screens won’t hurt your eyes.
3. Avoid Using Phone at Work
You’re already spending a good seven to eight hours staring at your computer screen. Switching from your computer screen to your phone just adds to the eye strain and dry eyes. Use your phone to simply attend to or make important calls. And keep social media browsing for the end of the day.
4. Get Your Eyes Checked
A lot of individuals require eyeglasses only when they join the workforce. Working professionals should definitely get their eyes checked to save themselves from frequent headaches and blurry vision.
A healthy set of eyes is what you need to work efficiently. And using the above tips will help you fight all your eye problems effectively. With the least effort, you can give your eye health a major boost!
