The culture of binge-watching has become a common habit, especially when the lights are off, and it feels like you’re in your personal cinema. But before you hit the play button and dive into darkness, let’s talk about how this habit might be affecting your eyes.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that staring at screens for extended periods of time can lead to digital eye strain. According to Dr. Dianna Seldom, a comprehensive ophthalmologist, the symptoms of digital eye strain can include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder pain.
It’s advised to take frequent breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and look at something 20 feet away. Adjusting the room lighting, using an anti-glare screen on your computer, and increasing the text size on devices can also help reduce digital eye strain.
While binge-watching can be an enjoyable pastime, it’s important to be mindful of the potential impact on your eyes. So, before you settle in for a long viewing session, consider putting these eye-friendly tips into practice to protect your vision.
