In today’s society, electronics are an inalienable part of each person’s life. From computers to smartphones, the light of our lives seems to come from the glow of a screen. But how does this near-constant exposure to a screen affect our eyesight? Almost every person has a phone, computer, iPad, or another piece of technology. The integration of electronics into our world is damaging our vision without reprieve.

The deterioration of one’s vision as a consequence of technological exposure, known as computer vision syndrome, is rapidly becoming a prominent part of modern generations’ everyday lives. The American Optometric Association (AOA) states that “the average American worker spends seven hours a day on the computer, either in the office or working from home. March is Save Your Vision Month, and the American Optometric Association is working to educate both employers and employees about how to avoid digital eye strain in the workplace.”

The most common symptoms associated with computer vision syndrome are:

• eye strain
• headaches
• blurred vision
• dry eyes
• neck and shoulder pain

These symptoms may be caused by:

• poor lighting
• glare on a digital screen
• improper viewing distances
• poor seating posture
• uncorrected vision problems

Changing simple things, such as lighting and the eyes’ distance from the screen can collectively help to save one’s vision. Minor vision impairments can happen if too much time is spent on electronics; therefore, you can reduce strain on your eyes by following the 20-20-20 rule. The AOA states that “the 20-20-20 rule is a 20-second break, 20 feet away, every 20 minutes.” Such a scheme can have a positive enough effect on your eyes to determine whether or not you need to wear glasses, and is highly advisable for all technology users.