CINCINNATI (WKRC) — New concerns are emerging about the impact of prolonged screen time on eye health, with experts warning of a condition known as digital eye strain, or “computer vision syndrome.”

According to Prevent Blindness Ohio, this condition encompasses a range of symptoms experienced when using computers or other digital devices for extended periods. Symptoms may include dry or irritated eyes, blurred or double vision, tearing or watery eyes, and headaches.

Andrea Kannedy, Regional Director for Prevent Blindness Ohio, emphasized the importance of preventing this condition. “We are a non-profit organization. We exist because nearly half of the people that have permanently lost their vision could have prevented it, and that’s a big number, and prevention is key,” she said.

Kannedy noted that as many as six out of ten workers report that digital eye strain reduces their productivity and effectiveness at work. Around half of those affected say it impacts their well-being and quality of life, leaving them too tired to enjoy after-work activities and causing irritability at work. Additionally, 27 percent have taken time off due to digital eye strain.

To combat these issues, Kannedy suggests following the 20-20-20 rule: “Every 20 minutes that you are focusing on a screen, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. That gives your eyes an opportunity to re-focus, focus farther out, take a little break.”

Additional recommendations for a more comfortable workspace include placing screens 20 to 26 inches away from the eyes and slightly below eye level, using a document holder next to the screen to avoid constant head movement, adjusting lighting to reduce glare, and using glare filters on digital screens. For those who wear glasses, choosing anti-reflective lenses can help reduce glare, increase contrast, and block blue light from digital devices.