Should You Avoid Too Much Screen Time Before an Eye Exam?

Are you concerned about the effects of too much screen time before an eye exam? You're not alone. It's a common question for people who are preparing to get their eyes checked at The Eye Center of Southern Indiana.

We all know that reading on screens can cause some eye strain, but did you know that excess screen time can impact your eyesight in other ways? Our blog post will explore some of the potential risks of spending too much time in front of screens before your eye appointment in Bloomington, IN. Call to schedule yours today.

What’s your screen time like?

If you're like most Americans, your cell phone, tablet, or computer are always within reach. The average adult spends hours in front of screens every day, usually for work or school, but also for entertainment. Unfortunately, prolonged screen time can cause symptoms, like:

Eyestrain
Dry eyes
Headaches
Burning or stinging eyes
Muscle fatigue around the eyes and face
Blurred vision

When should I get an eye exam near me?

The Eye Center of Southern Indiana recommends yearly eye exams and vision tests for people of all ages living in Bloomington, IN. Some patients require more frequent exams based on their risk factors or family history of eye disease. Before your eye appointment, our office may ask you to fill out some forms with information about yourself. We'll ask questions, like:

Are you experiencing any symptoms, like blurred or double vision?
Do you wear glasses or contact lenses?
Do you have any eye diseases in your family history?
Is there anything else we should know about your eyes?

During your assessment, we may also ask how many hours a day you spend in front of screens, including how much time you spend looking at digital devices outside of work or school.

What happens during an eye exam?

An eye exam near me begins with a routine vision test to see if your prescription has changed in the last year. The Eye Center of Southern Indiana in Bloomington may also test for eye conditions, like glaucoma and macular degeneration, using a special visual grid. If you have any symptoms, like eyestrain, we'll discuss further testing and potential treatment options with you.

How can I prevent screen-related symptoms?

In addition to adjusting how much time you spend looking at screens throughout the day, there are other ways to reduce symptoms of eyestrain:

Take a break from screens at least once an hour
Blink frequently to prevent your eyes from drying out
Protect your eyes from bright light when you're in front of a screen
Adjust the brightness and contrast levels on screens to reduce glare
Avoid looking at screens in low light

Schedule an eye appointment

These days, it’s hard to avoid spending time in front of screens. We spend hours on our computers daily for work and play. If you’re ready to improve your eye health or it’s time for a yearly vision test and eye exam near me, call The Eye Center of Southern Indiana in Bloomington to set up an assessment. Our eye doctors can minimize any strain or fatigue caused by staring at a screen all day long.