14 August 2019
Should you worry about how much time your child spends in front of the computer or small screen every day?
Sitting for hours in front of a computer screen or iPad or smartphone places excessive stress on the visual system. Our systems have not been designed to point the eyes at a fixed distance for prolonged periods of time. Visual stress can cause the system to strain, resulting in sore tired eyes, headaches and difficulty with concentration. The system can also make its own adaptations, resulting in conditions such as myopia (short-sightedness) or astigmatism
All children and adults spending long periods of time in front of screens should have thorough visual examinations at least every 2 years, earlier if there are any symptoms. Stress-reducing lenses and coatings to reduce blue light from backlit screens can greatly increase comfort and prevent long term vision problems.
