There’s no doubt that video gaming is a fun activity that anyone can enjoy. What’s less clear, however, is the effect that gaming for hours on end has on our eyesight. Some experts say that gaming can cause eye fatigue and even lead to vision problems down the road. So, does gaming for long periods of time hurt your eyes? The jury’s still out on that one.
As people become more glued to digital screens, and with the advent of transformative technologies like the rise of VR headsets, the world of gaming is on a whole new level. With immersive games keeping people hooked to their devices, it’s crucial to do your research and know if there are risks to consider in the long run. After all, spending hours playing games can negatively affect your overall health, so knowing its impact can ensure you’re not pushing your eyes to their limits.
Video Games and Your Vision: What are the Effects You Should Know?
There is no question that video games are a popular form of entertainment. Millions of people worldwide play them, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Some games are educational, while others are purely for fun. No matter what game you enjoy, it’s essential to be aware of their potential effects on your vision.
Some experts suggest that spending too much time in front of a screen, whether television, computer, or smartphone, can lead to digital eye strain. This condition occurs when you stare at a bright screen for an extended period, resulting in tired eyes, blurred vision, and headaches.
In addition to digital eye strain, there is also the potential for video games to cause permanent damage to your eyesight. This type of damage is known as “Computer Vision Syndrome” and is caused by spending too much time looking at a bright screen without taking breaks. Symptoms include blurry vision, dry eyes, eyestrain, and headaches.
What is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a term used to describe a group of symptoms caused by prolonged computer use. CVS can cause eye fatigue, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain.
Most people who experience CVS symptoms can reduce symptoms by making simple changes to their computer use habits. For example, you can take breaks every 20 minutes to look away from the screen and focus on something else in the room. You can also adjust the brightness of your screen and position your monitor, so it is at eye level.
How to Protect Your Eyes Against Computer Vision Syndrome
Tip #1: Reduce Screen Glare
One way to protect your eyes against computer vision syndrome is to reduce screen glare. You can do this by adjusting the brightness and contrast of your screen, using a matte monitor surface, or installing an anti-glare filter.
Tip #2: Wear Eye Protection
You can do a few things to help protect your eyes against computer vision syndrome, and one of the most important is to wear eye protection. This can include eyeglasses, contact lenses, or sunglasses. It’s also important to take breaks every 20 minutes and look away from the screen for at least 20 seconds. You can also try focusing on something at a distance for a few seconds. This will help your eyes to rest and reduce the chances of developing computer vision syndrome.
Tip #3: Improve Your Position and Consider the Distance of Your Eyes from the Screen
To protect your eyes against CVS, you can improve your position and consider the distance of your eyes from the screen. With that in mind, ensure that your chair is comfortable and that you are sitting straight. You should also adjust the height of your screen so that it is at eye level. It also helps to consider the distance of your eyes from the screen and aim for at least six to ten feet of space in between.
The Bottom Line: Exploring the Effects of Video Gaming on Your Eyes
There is still much research to do on the effects of video gaming on eyesight, but what is currently known suggests that some risks may be associated with excessive gaming. Some studies have found that people playing video games may be more likely to experience vision problems such as myopia or nearsightedness. Other research has suggested that spending too much time in front of a screen – a TV, computer, or phone – can lead to eye fatigue and increased chances of developing eyestrain.
While it’s important to note that not all gamers will experience these problems, it’s worth being aware of the potential risks if you spend a lot of time playing video games. If you are experiencing any vision problems, you should speak with an optometrist about possible causes and treatment options. And if you struggle with eyestrain or fatigue after extended screen time, take breaks often and give your eyes some rest.
How Can We Help You?
If you’re looking for the best ophthalmologists in Abbotsford, you’ve come to the right place. Valley Laser Eye Centre is a vision correction center in Abbotsford, BC. We use state-of-the-art technology and provide a comfortable setting with the best client service for our patients. Book an appointment with us today!
