In today’s digital world, screens are a part of everyday life—from computers and phones to tablets and TVs. While technology has made life more convenient, increased screen time is taking a toll on our eye health.
At Picton Eyecare, we are seeing a growing number of patients presenting with symptoms of digital eye strain, as well as a significant rise in short-sightedness (myopia) in children.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, refers to a group of eye and vision-related problems caused by prolonged screen use.
Common symptoms include:
- Tired or sore eyes
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Dry or watery eyes
- Neck and shoulder pain
These symptoms can affect both adults and children, especially with long hours spent on devices for work, school, or entertainment.
Why Do Screens Affect Our Eyes?
When using screens, we tend to blink less, which leads to dry and irritated eyes. We also focus at a fixed distance for extended periods, placing strain on the eye muscles.
Other contributing factors include:
- Poor lighting or glare
- Improper screen positioning
- Long, uninterrupted periods of screen use
Over time, this can impact both comfort and visual performance.
Screen Time and Myopia in Children
One of the biggest concerns we are seeing is the link between increased screen time and the rise of myopia (short-sightedness) in children.
Children today are spending more time indoors on digital devices and less time outdoors. This combination has been shown to increase the risk of developing myopia and can cause it to progress more rapidly.
By 2050, it is predicted that nearly 50% of the world’s population will be short-sighted.
Children with one or both parents who are short-sighted are already at a higher risk. When combined with excessive screen time, this risk increases further.
At Picton Eyecare, we offer myopia management solutions such as:
- MyoSmart lenses
- MiSight contact lenses
- Low-dose atropine eye drops
These treatments can help slow down the progression of myopia and protect long-term eye health.
How to Reduce Digital Eye Strain
Simple changes can make a big difference:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Take regular breaks from screens
- Ensure proper lighting and reduce glare
- Adjust screen height and distance
- Stay hydrated and consider lubricating eye drops if needed
- Make sure you are wearing the correct pair of glasses designed specifically for your screen use and working distance
For children, it’s also important to encourage outdoor time, as natural light plays a key role in healthy eye development.
When Should You See an Optometrist?
If you or your child are experiencing ongoing symptoms such as headaches, eye strain, or blurred vision, it’s important to have a comprehensive eye examination.
At Picton Eyecare, we provide bulk billed eye tests and use advanced technology to assess both vision and eye health.
Your Local Optometrist in Picton
As your local optometrist at Picton Eyecare, we’re seeing more patients experiencing digital eye strain from increased screen time. Symptoms like headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision are common—but manageable with the right advice and lenses tailored to your screen use.
Don’t ignore the signs. Book your comprehensive eye test today and let us help keep your eyes comfortable and healthy. Book your appointment online now:
B.Optom (UoA), PGOT (UNSW)
Nandita is the principal optometrist of Picton Eyecare. She has over 15 years of extensive experience working in corporate and independent optometry practice. Opening Picton Eyecare in 2022 has fulfilled Nandita’s dream of an independent optometry practice, committed in serving the local community of Wollondilly and surrounding areas.
Nandita is caring and passionate about providing professional, personal and customised solution for every patient. She takes interest in all her patients and employs her skills and expertise to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient. She maintains great relationships with other medical professionals in the area.
Nandita is a local resident and has been working in the Southern Highlands for many years. She has a loyal following of patients who value her clinical and interpersonal relationships.
When not at work Nandita loves spending time with her family.