Tips to avoid harmful effects of computer and smartphone screens on your eyes

Computer screens have always been the proverbial double-edged swords where on the one hand they help us with all sorts of activities from business to entertainment, from health consultations to online courses, from stocks and finance to online shopping, while on the other hand, they have a major role in creating health issues, especially for the eyes. It was alright till the time computers were lying in one room and we could access them only when we would wind up with our day and spend some time but today computer screens are before our eyes almost throughout our awake time in the form of mobiles, tabs, laptops, office screens and even watches and the effect it creates has not only become stronger but also longer and all to the detriment of the users eyes. If you're one of those people who glances at their digital devices more than 7 hours in a day, chances are your eyes are paying the price for your screen addiction as staring at your digital screens for too long can lead to tired, itchy, dry eyes and even blurred vision and headaches. Also due to constant eye rubbing due to tiredness, there are high chances of eye infections including styes and conjunctivitis which can also spread to others due physical contact with the touched hands.” She pointed out, “In some people, especially the old with less space in their eyes constant near work can precipitate an attack of acute glaucoma which presents as severe pain, redness and blurring of the vision. Once the diagnosis is made treatment can be initiated in the form of eyedrops, eye gels and tablets.” Along with this, she recommended the following precautions which should be followed: - Use anti-reflective glasses or screens - Keep the computer at 45 degree lower angle - Blink the eye frequently - Use eye moisturising eye drops during and after screen time - Eat lots of fresh green and red/ orange vegetables and fruits - Follow the 20-20-20 rule which means every 20 minutes look at a distance of 20 metres for 20 seconds to give break to the eye muscles and the eye surface - Do not sit before the AC directly - Sleep for 7-8 hours and drink 2-3 litres of water every day - Go out in the sunlight frequently especially for children as it has shown to reduce the chances of glass progression - Limit mobile phones use in children to the minimum possible for the overall development of the child, and engage the child in alternate activities instead of scolding.