Digital Fatigue

With the amount of time, we spent using technology and accessing online information; people tend to suffer from “digital fatigue.” Digital fatigue refers to the physical manifestations resulting from spending too much time on technology, such as the use of computers and other electronics (Boisvert, 2015). The most common types of digital fatigue are eyestrains. It is a physical discomfort that is experienced from prolonged exposure to the screen (Aizman, 2016). 

What are the common signs of Digital Fatigue?

The common symptoms of digital fatigue can appear as quickly as 2 hours after looking at the screen.

• The signs of digital fatigue may include sore or irritated eyes, difficulty focusing, dry or watery eyes, blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light and pain in the neck, shoulders, and back.

How to prevent symptoms of Digital Fatigue?

The steps below are some ways to prevent and reduce the symptoms of digital fatigue:

• Use proper lighting – be aware of the appropriate lighting when using a computer. Use ambient lighting or eliminate exterior light by closing drapes, shades, or blinds to reduce eye strains (Heiting & Wan, 2018).
• Minimize glare – install an anti-glare screen on computer monitors or when wearing glasses purchase lenses with anti-reflective coating (Heiting & Wan, 2018).
• Upgrade to an LCD – LCD screens usually have an anti-reflective surface which is better for the eyes.
• Adjust your computer display settings – adjust the text size and contrast, color temperature, display brightness to reduce eye strain.
• Blink more often – blinking moistens the eyes, and it prevents dryness and irritation (Heiting & Wan, 2018).
• Exercise your eyes – look away (at least 20 feet away) from your computer at least every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds also known as the “20-20-20 rule”.
• Visit your eye doctor annually – getting a comprehensive eye exam is essential to prevent or treat computer vision problems (Heiting & Wan, 2018).

Figure1. Courtesy of Visually.com

Submitted by: Camyl Gatchalian

Reference:

Aizman. (2016). What you need to know about digital fatigue and its effect on your eyes. Retrieved from https://www.empireretina.com/practice_news/need-know-digital-fatigue-effect-eyes/

Boisvert, N. (2015). Digital Fatigue. Retrieved from https://agapimarketing.com/digital-fatigue/

Heiting, G. & Wan, L. (2018). Computer eye strain: 10 steps for relief. Retrieved from https://www.allaboutvision.com/cvs/irritated.htm

Visually. (2014). 7 Things You're Doing at Your Desk That Give You Eye Strain. Retrieved from https://visual.ly/community/infographic/health/7-things-youre-doing-your-desk-give-you-eye-strain