Why Do I See Yellow Outlines on Text When Using My Phone? - Ophthalmology

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The phenomenon you're experiencing, where you see yellow outlines around text when using your phone, can be attributed to several factors, including the characteristics of your vision, the settings of your device, and the nature of the display itself.
Firstly, your current prescription indicates that you have varying degrees of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism in both eyes. This means that your eyes may not focus light evenly on the retina, which can lead to visual distortions, especially when viewing small text on screens. The yellow outlines you see could be a result of chromatic aberration, where different colors of light are focused at different points. This is more pronounced in individuals with astigmatism, as the irregular shape of the cornea can cause light to scatter, leading to color fringes around objects.

Additionally, the display settings on your phone can also contribute to this effect. Many smartphones have settings that adjust color temperature and contrast, which can make text appear differently depending on the background color. If you're using a dark mode with white text, the contrast may cause your eyes to perceive a slight halo effect, especially if the brightness is set too high or too low.
Another factor to consider is the distance at which you are holding your phone. If the screen is too close, it can exacerbate focusing issues, leading to visual discomfort. You mentioned that moving the phone further away did not significantly improve the situation, which suggests that the issue might be more related to your visual acuity and the way your eyes are processing the information on the screen.

As for whether you should remove your glasses while using your phone, it depends on how well you can see the text without them. If you find that you can read comfortably without your glasses, it may be worth trying. However, if you notice that your vision becomes blurry or strained, it's advisable to keep your glasses on.
In terms of managing this issue, here are some recommendations:
1. Adjust Screen Settings: Experiment with the brightness and contrast settings on your phone. Sometimes, reducing the brightness or changing the color temperature can help reduce visual distortions.

2. Take Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain.

3. Consult an Eye Care Professional: Since you have a prescription for glasses, it may be beneficial to revisit your eye care provider. They can assess whether your current prescription is adequate for your smartphone use and if any adjustments are necessary.

4. Consider Anti-Reflective Coatings: If you haven't already, ask about anti-reflective coatings for your glasses. These can help reduce glare from screens and improve visual clarity.

5. Monitor Your Eye Health: If you continue to experience visual disturbances, it’s important to have a comprehensive eye exam. Changes in vision can sometimes indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, while the yellow outlines you see may be related to your vision and the characteristics of your phone's display, it's essential to ensure that your glasses prescription is appropriate for your needs. Taking steps to reduce eye strain and consulting with an eye care professional will help you achieve clearer vision and a more comfortable viewing experience.