Blog:Protect Your Eyes in the Digital Age – Tips from Radiant Optometry in Bellflower, CA

Many of us spend hours each day staring at screens—whether it’s for work, social media, or streaming the latest series. At Radiant Optometry in Bellflower, CA, we hear the same question often: Can prolonged screen time actually damage my eyes? The short answer is yes, extended digital use can lead to significant eye strain and long-term discomfort, though permanent damage is rare. But that doesn’t mean your screen habits aren’t harming your vision health.
Spending two or more consecutive hours in front of a screen increases your risk of developing digital eye strain, a condition recognized by the American Optometric Association. Symptoms include dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain. These aren’t just minor inconveniences—they can affect your productivity, sleep quality, and overall well-being.
The primary culprit? Blue light. Digital screens emit high-energy visible (HEV) blue light, which scatters more easily than other light waves, making it harder for your eyes to focus. This leads to visual fatigue. Additionally, we tend to blink 66% less when looking at screens, which contributes to dry, irritated eyes.
Anyone who uses digital devices is at risk—kids doing homework online, professionals in front of dual monitors, or seniors video-calling loved ones. In today’s world, avoiding screens isn’t realistic. But protecting your eyes is.
At Radiant Optometry, we’ve helped countless patients in Bellflower and surrounding communities—from Los Alamitos to Lakewood—manage screen-related eye issues with personalized care, specialized lenses, and proactive eye health strategies.
You don’t need to give up your devices to protect your vision. Simple, effective changes can make a big difference:
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Optimize your workspace: Position your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye level.
Use blue light filtering lenses: These reduce glare and block harmful wavelengths, especially if you’re on screens after sunset.
Blink more often: Remind yourself to blink fully to keep your eyes lubricated.
Schedule regular eye exams: Early detection of vision changes ensures timely correction.
We offer blue light protection coatings and customized computer lenses at Radiant Optometry, tailored to your daily screen use and prescription needs.