Impact of Prolonged Screen Time on Vision: Risks and Recovery

Using electronic devices for too long?

When I was 23 to 24 years old, I spent two months using the computer almost continuously, only resting while sleeping.
As a result, my myopia increased by nearly 100 degrees.
My astigmatism in the right eye has remained unchanged at 50 degrees, while the left eye, which was also originally 50 degrees, experienced a similar situation after more than six months.
This time, I was using my phone, and my vision deteriorated again.
After more than six months, I noticed the appearance of floaters and realized that the brightness of light I see differs between my two eyes.
I had a fundus examination that showed no issues, but when I went for an eye exam the day before yesterday, I found that my left eye appeared darker.
This morning, however, the left eye seemed brighter than the right eye, and I feel more comfortable seeing things with the brighter eye.
Could you please tell me what kind of damage excessive use of electronic devices can cause to my eyes? Will it make my eyes appear older or change their appearance? Is there a way to recover? Thank you, doctor!

Xiao Fo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/17

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Prolonged use of electronic devices can lead to eye fatigue, resulting in symptoms similar to presbyopia.
However, this condition is generally reversible.
It is recommended to reduce usage time to improve your symptoms.

Reply Date: 2016/03/17

More Info

Prolonged screen time, especially in young adults, can have significant impacts on vision. The issues you are experiencing, such as increased myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and the appearance of floaters, are not uncommon among individuals who spend excessive time on digital devices.
Firstly, let's address the increase in myopia. Studies have shown that extended periods of near work, such as using computers or smartphones, can contribute to the progression of myopia. This is particularly true for individuals who already have a predisposition to refractive errors. The mechanism behind this is believed to be related to the eye's adaptation to prolonged close-up tasks, which can lead to elongation of the eyeball over time, resulting in increased myopia. The fact that you experienced a nearly 100-degree increase in myopia over a short period is concerning and highlights the importance of taking breaks and practicing good visual hygiene.

Astigmatism, which you mentioned remains stable in your right eye but fluctuates in your left, can also be exacerbated by prolonged screen use. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision. While astigmatism itself may not worsen significantly due to screen time, the visual strain from excessive screen use can make existing astigmatism more noticeable.

The appearance of floaters, or "flying spots" in your vision, can be related to changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye. While floaters are often benign, their sudden increase can be alarming and should be evaluated by an eye care professional, especially if accompanied by flashes of light or a curtain-like shadow in your vision.

Regarding the differences in brightness between your eyes, this could be related to several factors, including variations in the health of the retina or the optic nerve, or even differences in the lens clarity. It is essential to have regular eye examinations to monitor these changes and ensure that there are no underlying conditions affecting your vision.

As for the potential for your eyes to appear older or to undergo changes in appearance due to prolonged screen time, this is less about physical aging and more about the strain and fatigue that can manifest as discomfort, redness, or dryness. Chronic digital eye strain can lead to symptoms collectively known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), which includes eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches.

To mitigate these risks and promote recovery, consider the following strategies:
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and allows your eye muscles to relax.

2. Adjust Your Workspace: Ensure that your screen is at eye level and about an arm's length away. Proper lighting can also reduce glare and strain.

3. Blink Regularly: When staring at screens, people tend to blink less, leading to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often to keep your eyes moist.

4. Use Artificial Tears: If you experience dryness, consider using lubricating eye drops to alleviate discomfort.

5. Limit Screen Time: Try to reduce the amount of time spent on screens, especially before bedtime, to help your eyes recover.

6. Regular Eye Exams: Keep up with regular eye check-ups to monitor your vision and make necessary adjustments to your prescription.

7. Consider Vision Therapy: If you continue to experience significant issues, vision therapy may be beneficial in improving visual skills and reducing strain.

In conclusion, while prolonged screen time can lead to various visual disturbances and discomfort, implementing good habits and seeking professional guidance can help manage and potentially reverse some of these effects. It's crucial to listen to your body and take proactive steps to protect your vision.

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