How to reduce digital overload on eye?

With constant exposure to digital devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, e-readers etc, a large number of people are experiencing increase in symptoms of eye fatigue.

The impact of exposure is compounded by the fact that multiple devices are often used simultaneously, putting excessive strain on eyes.

An individual might be working on his laptop while watching television and at the same time also checking his smartphone intermittently for social media updates.

While digital devices are here to stay, Essilor has taken note of the trend to come up with products to protect you from the impact of digital overload, consumers also need to follow some basic measures to counter rising visual fatigue.

Here are some essential tips from Shivkumar J, CEO of Essilor India on reducing digital overload on eye:

Frequent breaks from computer: With our work completely dependent on computers today, most of us spend hours staring at the screens at office as well as at homes. While it may not be possible to reduce their usage, frequent breaks can be taken in between to give some rest to the eyes. Schedule meetings and brainstorming sessions in the middle of the day, and stay away from the screen while eating your lunch.

Minimise glare: Excessive glare on your monitor adds to the eye strain. Try to reduce reflections in your surroundings by using window blinds, avoiding bright light sources in your room, and installing glare filters on your monitor screen.

Use protective eyewear: Use spectacle lenses customised to the need of the times, which can offer prevention and protection for your eyes against digital overload, harmful blue light, strain and fatigue. Innovative lenses like EyeZen and Crizal Prevencia from Essilor are specially designed to meet the changing needs of the day and helps protect from harmful bule light and UV rays.

Smartphone away from bed: Never carry your smartphone to bed. This is one habit that not just increases digital strain on the eye but also wrecks our sleep. Make sure you keep your phone away at least half an hour before going to bed; get rid of the habit of lurking on to social media channels before falling asleep.