Growing up in this digital age, it’s common to see children with their eyes glued to the TV screen or other digital devices. Although this may seem “normal” nowadays, too much exposure to the blue light emitted from gadgets may cause adverse effects on their visual health. Your trusted eye doctor from Myopia Institute explains how the persistent use of technology affects your children’s vision.
The Impact of Too Much Screen Time
Digital devices produce high-energy visible light in the form of blue rays. They can easily enter your children’s eyes, increasing their risk of developing eye problems. Computer vision syndrome, more popularly known as digital eye strain, is one of the conditions often linked with excessive gadget use.
Your optometrist explains that computer vision syndrome is the visual discomfort you or your kids experience after watching TV or using your gadgets for an extended time. Your eyes may feel sore, heavy and tired. This may also be accompanied by headaches, nausea and dry eyes.
Another potential effect of too much screen time is myopia. Some researchers believe that letting your children enjoy the outdoors more often can reduce their risk of having myopia or at least slow down its progression. However, as children prefer to stay at home and play computer games or watch TV all day, this habit may make them more likely to become nearsighted.
Maintaining Your Children’s Visual Health and Comfort
It may be impractical to have your children stop using digital devices altogether. What you can do is limit their screen time. For one, teach them the 20-20-20 habit. Every time they spend 20 minutes on their gadgets, have them look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds or more.
Your myopia control specialist also shares that the American Academy of Pediatrics has established a screen time guide for your kids. It’s best for newborns up to 18 months old to have no screen time unless you include them in a video call. Parents’ supervision and limited screen time is advised for those older than 18 months until 24 months. Two to five year-olds shouldhave a 60-minute maximum gadget time.
For more information about gadget use and its effects on your eyes, contact a local myopia control specialist today. We’ll be ready to help you.