Does your holiday relaxation include binge-watching your favourite shows, gaming marathons, or scrolling endlessly on social media? While this downtime is well-deserved, it could be silently impacting your eye health.
Prolonged screen time can strain your eyes, especially for young adults prone to myopia (short-sightedness), where distant objects appear blurry. With the increasing reliance on digital devices, managing screen use becomes even more critical during the holidays.
Myopia is becoming increasingly common, and excessive near-work activities, like using smartphones or tablets, play a significant role. Studies show that young adults spend an average of 7 hours per day on screens, a habit linked to worsening myopia symptoms such as:
The good news? Simple lifestyle changes and proactive eye care can make a huge difference.
Natural light is a game-changer for eye health. Studies reveal that just 2 hours outdoors daily can help slow myopia progression. Plan holiday activities like hikes, sports, or outdoor picnics to reduce screen time while enjoying quality time with loved ones.
For every 20 minutes spent on a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple habit relaxes your eye muscles and reduces fatigue.
Dedicate certain times or areas, like mealtimes or family gatherings, to be screen-free. Not only does this protect your eyes, but it also strengthens connections with those around you.
If screen time is unavoidable, consider blue light-blocking glasses to minimize eye strain and reduce the impact on sleep.
Screens can make you blink less, leading to dry, irritated eyes. Consciously blinking more often and drinking plenty of water can keep your eyes comfortable.
Young adults often dismiss early signs of eye strain or blurry vision. However, regular eye exams are crucial to detect myopia early and slow its progression. Advanced solutions like specialized lenses or myopia control treatments can help protect your vision for the long term.
At Kyalami Optometrists, we are passionate about helping you maintain healthy vision. Whether it’s through comprehensive eye exams, personalized myopia management, or guidance on screen-related strain, we’re here to support your eye health journey.
Fill in the form below and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Address: Shop 29 Crowthorne Shopping Centre, Cnr Main & Arthur Roads, Kyalami, Midrand
