While there is an ongoing debate about whether digital devices can cause permanent damage to the eyes, what is generally agreed upon, is that, at the very least, staring at a laptop screen can cause eye strain and discomfort — this is known as computer vision syndrome.
Anyone working behind a computer screen all day will be familiar with the itchy eyes, blurred distance vision, and head and neck pains that have become part and parcel of the job. These symptoms alone may be enough to entice you into considering getting affordable Health Insurance.
But what of the long-term effects on your sight?
Every screen on an electronic device gives off what we call ‘blue light’. This high-energy visible (HEV) light emitted by electronic devices has the potential to cause retinal injury, especially after years of exposure.
Long-term exposure to HEV has been associated with a condition called macular degeneration, one of the major causes of permanent eye loss in adults older than 50.
So how can you avoid damage to your retinas?
1. Always maintain a healthy distance from your PC screen
Avoid hunching to get closer to the screen. If you find yourself leaning closer to your screen, your eyes are tired and need a rest. It’s also not the best posture for your back. The same applies when using your smartphone or tablet.
So be sure to keep your screen positioned at a healthy distance of 40 to 76 centimetres away from your eyes.
2. Giving your eyes a rest
A straightforward way of letting your eyes relax is to look at something in the distance. Looking into the distance will also cause a blinking reflex which lubricates the surface of your eyes.
You can also consider doing hot compresses with a hot cloth between brakes. This will help your eyes to relax.
3. Consult an eye care professional
You can head out to your local Optometrist and inquire about glasses or contact lenses that protect your eyes from blue light, such as blue light-blocking glasses. If there is a sign of strain in your eyes, the Optometrist can also assist you with that, and blue light glasses can make a big difference.
Oneplan health insurance can cover a portion of the cost, under the optometry cover benefit, necessary for eye health care assistance. Just be sure to read about the costs and waiting periods in your Oneplan policy.
Having affordable health insurance is there to assist you with not only the big stuff but the small stuff too.
Yours in trusted health insurance,
Oneplan
