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Stress and Vision: the invisible link

Early in my career I worked with academically struggling children who were referred by their teachers. Part of the vision therapy program to correct their visual difficulties asked the children to color within the lines, balance on one foot or read a specific paragraph. I became acutely aware of the children’s stress as they attempted to accomplish these simple tasks.  A stress response begins when he or she perceives the situation as overwhelming.

Stress for us is a negative force when we face a continuous challenge without relief. The harmful effects of stress on us are:

Headaches                              Chest pain                   Hypertension  

Nausea                                    Diabetes                      Difficulty sleeping

WebMD.com reports 4 out of 10 adults suffer these adverse effects. And I was surprised to learn between 75 – 90% of physician visits could be linked to stress induced ailments. OSHA considers stress a hazard.

In business today we have an array of digital devices that demand clear sharp vision 24-7. Computers, tablets, GPS devices, and smart phones proliferate the workplace and home environments. Can you imagine the stress for a person with focusing difficulty if day after day he or she is trying to keep up production, operate a machine, drive a vehicle or see clearly the image on a screen?

What are the indicators a person is experiencing digital stress?

Headaches                              body tension                lowered concentration & attention span

Nausea & dizziness                 reduced focusing accuracy     dry eye difficulties

Reduced peripheral vision      lower frustration levels          fatigue

Do you see the similarities?

What steps can you take to address your digital stress? I recommend you start with our discovery tool WIDE. When you take this information to your eye doctor; all of the information is there to ensure the most accurate prescription for all of your activities. For example:  People tend to hold their mobile devices two to nine inches closer to their eyes than their “printed” reading material. This closer range causes strain on the eyes. People who wear corrective eyewear or contact lenses are more likely to experience digital eye strain, as their lenses are not likely designed for the mid-range distances of digital devices. Especially if you’re over age 40.

Other methods to reduce digital stress:

Incorporate a cruxite tint, anti-reflective coating, or a new lens treatment called Crizal Prevencia to the prescription lenses. These are helpful to a person who has a light colored eye, glare is an issue, has certain eye disease or due to the prescription lens thickness

Be sure to use proper ergonomics

In some instances; a second pair of eyewear designed for the specific activity such as computer work is the best solution for the best possible visual performance.

Take the first step to identify your level of digital stress. Send us an email and we’ll provide you with a discovery tool to help you have the best possible visual performance and comfort