My kids are almost always in front of a screen. I know it’s not ideal.

I guess that's the habit of this new, easily accessible and usable technological state we find ourselves in. Even I remember as a kid spending time on my GameBoy, video game counsel, TV, or computer. But lately, it's ridiculous the amount of time we spend on screens.

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Credit: Andrey Kordovsky
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And unfortunately, I feel like our advances in technology have forced us into even more screen time.

Credit: Tero Vesalainen
Credit: Tero Vesalainen
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I know my eyes are spent after a day of work in front of a computer screen. How much more tired are they when I sit down to game or watch tv at night? Another screen, and more eye strain.

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Not only can an over-abundance of screen time cause people to isolate themselves from others and real-world interaction, it can also decrease their attention span. In addition, digital screens CAN cause eye damage and vision problems.

Listen up parents and office workers; it’s known as computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain, if you work behind a computer screen all day. In addition, blue-light can cause permanent damage in the eyes.

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According to this report; the American Optometric Association, or AOA, defines CVS (Computer Vision Syndrome) or digital eye strain as a group of eye and vision-related problems that results from prolonged usage of computers, tablets, e-readers, and cell phones which cause increased stress to near vision. It also describes the inclusion of ocular, visual, and musculoskeletal symptoms due to prolonged use of a computer. Experts say it affects about 50% of computer users with basic symptoms including dry and irritated eyes, along with blurred vision.

Most eye health professionals suggest the 20-20-20 rule; every 20 minutes, an individual should take the eye off the screen for about 20 seconds and look at a distant object somewhere around 20 feet away.

So is screen time bad for kids eyes?

Cutting back on screen time and getting outside will help a great deal with eye issues. Besides, increased screen time has been associated with childhood obesity due to less physical activity, more calorie intake, reduced metabolic rate, altered sleep time, hypertension, dyslipidemia and occasionally cardiovascular disease.

Credit: AOA
Credit: AOA
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Looking for more information?

This study outlines things you can do for yourself and children to avoid eye issues and overuse of screens!

KEEP READING: 15 Natural Ways to Improve Your Sleep

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