It's official - we're totally dependent on our mobile devices. We can't deny that these devices are wonderful, because they allow us to be in touch with whoever we want almost always. However because these devices are made with small screens, most users tend to hold their smartphones much closer than they hold newspapers and books. If you do a lot of reading off small screens, it can really be a strain on your vision.
Because we all hold smart phones so close, our eyes end up working overtime, just to look at text and images. After some time, research shows this may lead to difficulty with focus and vision, especially if you already use vision correction, like glasses or lenses. If you already wear glasses, holding your phone or tablet too close can make it a real challenge for your eyes to correct for distance. Eventually, these challenges can lead to eyestrain and headaches.
But there are more symptoms that can arise. Holding your smartphone too close can make you blink less, which can lead to dry eyes and blurry vision.
What can we do keep our eyes strong, while still using our phones? In order to stop eyestrain and blurred vision caused by our smartphones and tablets, it's best to use a larger font, and keep the screen further away from your face. It's also helpful to try and regularly give yourself a rest from staring at your phone. So be smart about the way you use your mobile devices and care for your eyes to ensure you protect your vision.
*Note: From now until Labor Day, the office will be closed every other Saturday. We will be open on June 29, July 13, July 27, August 10, and August 24. We wish an enjoyable summer to all of our patients and their families.