8 in 10 Adults with Eye Strain Use Multiple Screens at Once

Amy Rushlow
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Staring at a screen for more than two hours per day increases your risk of digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. (Photo: Corbis)

If you’ve ever watched TV while checking your phone (um, all of us?) know this: Approximately eight in 10 people with digital eye strain use multiple screens at the same time, according to a report from The Vision Council released today (Jan. 6).

In addition, 96 percent of people with digital eye strain look at a screen for more than two hours a day, which can make the symptoms worse.

What’s digital eye strain? Basically, it’s when your eyes hurt after looking at a computer, tablet, or phone screen for too long. Symptoms include eye irritation, dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck and back pain, the Vision Council says.

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These symptoms may be caused by glare, poor lighting, uncorrected vision problems (such as nearsightedness), and sitting too close to a screen, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). The problem is also called computer vision syndrome.

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Adults younger than 30 have the highest rate of digital eye strain. (Infographic: The Vision Council)

The report findings are based on a VisionWatch survey involving more that 10,000 adults.

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To avoid digital eye strain:

  • Consider wearing a pair of glare-reducing computer glasses, The Vision Council recommends. Gunnar is a popular brand among gamers and professionals. You can also find inexpensive options online.

  • Remember the 20-20 rule: For every 20 minutes of screen time, look far into the distance for at least 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a chance to rest and refocus, the AOA says.

  • Position the center of your computer screen four to five inches below eye level, the AOA recommends. For many people, this is more comfortable than looking at a screen straight-on.

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