Netflix and chilling has you glued to the screen? Well, we too love binge watching good shows but did you know that long hours of screen time is bad for your eyes? When your parents scold you for being glued to the phone and not going outside to actually play, they are doing so with your best interest in mind. Let's discuss the what is an eye strain, its causes and how to reduce eye strain through the 20 - 20 - 20 approach.

What Is Eye Strain?

In simple terms, eye strain is a discomfort in the eye(s) it usually happens if you kept looking at something for a prolonged time. This discomfort is usually a temporary occurrence and goes away within a short time. Unless you have been diagnosed with an underlying medical condition or you suspect you might be suffering from one, then an eye strain is not much to worry about but enough to be wary about. Taking preventive measures for eye strain is always recommended. Also, read about: All About Dry Eyes.

What Are The Causes Of Eye Strain?

The most probable causes of eye strain are a handful and listed below.

Prolonged use of Computers.
Use of Smartphones.
Reading for extended periods.
Working in dimly lit conditions.
Can also be caused by the concentrated use of eyes for specific demanding tasks.

What Are The Symptoms Of Eye Strain?

If you think that you may be suffering from eye strain look out for the following eye strain symptoms.

Sore eyes or tired eyes.
Watery or dry eyes.
Blurry vision or double vision.
A headache.
Increased light sensitivity

Also, read about: Why Regular Eye Check-up Is A Must.

What Is The 20 - 20 - 20 Rule To Reduce Eye Strain?

The 20 - 20 - 20 rule was made with keeping those people in mind for whom the use of digital screens for an extended period of time is a necessity. Designed by a Californian optometrist, this is a simple rule which can be put into bullet points in the following manner.

1. You need to remind yourself to take a 20 seconds break from staring at a screen for 20 minutes.
2. During this break, you need to focus on objects about 20 feet away from you.
3. Alternatively, you can also close your eyes for those 20 seconds and relax a bit.

Does The 20 - 20 - 20 Rule Work?

Although there aren't many research to back the rule, studies were conducted in 2013 in which more than 795 university students who followed the rule claimed that they did not face any of the symptoms of the eye strain. This rule, in general, makes sense too, it is not too hard to just shift your focus away from the screen for a few seconds. Note: To be reminded you can either set an alert on your phone. Related Reads: Foods Good For Eyes.

Are There Other Treatments?

There are some other effective remedies apart from the 20 - 20 - 20 rule which can help you treat eye strains.

You can use eye drops in order to ensure that your eyes are hydrated since focussing on a screen usually makes people blink less.
You also try changing the color settings of your digital screen, in android phones, there is an option to filter the blue light that these screens give off.
You should also regularly consult an eye specialistfor checkups.