In this digitally-driven world, both adults and children are hooked to gadgets either for leisure or for work. Outdoor games have taken a back seat while video games are the rage. Screen-centric games played on mobile phones, laptops or PlayStations connected to a television, all these are so engaging and addictive, that any video game lover can easily spend an average 5-8 hours a day.

You get so engrossed in playing that you don’t get a second to shift your eyeball from the screen and hence due to constant staring at screens, gaming tends to hamper your vision. Along with the regular office work, internet browsing, if you spend additional screen time in playing video games then your eyes might be at risk.

However, studies suggest that video games are quite good for humans as it helps in improving motor skills, spatial orientation and also enhances your mood and problem-solving skills. It is also good for increasing concentration.

Undeniably, video games are the best stress relievers and can also make a person smarter but if there are good effects, it is quite natural to have bad effects too. As we all know, anything done in excess is harmful. Playing video games is fine but if you are playing for a prolonged time then you are risking your vision.

Gaming effects on vision

With an intention to relieve stress, you are actually stressing your eyes. Too much of screen time can lead to blurred vision, dry eyes, pain in the neck, head and shoulders and to the worse can cause Computer Vision Syndrome also known as digital eye strain. The glare, less contrast and harmful blue light emitted from the gaming devices can cause strain on eyes. Since your eyes are constantly focused on digital screens, video gamers are likely to become the victim of Computer Vision Syndrome.

How can you relieve the eye strain caused due to video games?

For every problem, there is a solution even for eye strain. No matter if you love playing video games or hooked to computer due to office work or simply are a binge-watcher, prolonged usage of digital devices, that’s more than 5 hours a day can affect your vision.

So here are some guidelines, you can follow to reduce vision damage caused due to digital devices:

Follow the 20-20-20 rule:

Yes, we understand it is difficult to take a break while playing games. It is not always possible to leave the game but you can certainly pause. Follow the simple 20-20-20 rule while using any digital device for any purpose.

After every 20 minutes, make a habit to look away from the screen for 20 seconds and see somewhere at a distance of 20 feet. This way your eyes will get a break from the screen and will feel relaxed.

Use gaming glasses:

Wear gaming glasses while playing as it will help to reduce the digital eye strain by blocking the harmful blue light that is emitted from the screens. It will in fact, also improve your focus while playing video games. You can also wear blue light blocking glasses while playing or working on digital devices.

If you are already spending excessive time on computers due to your job then it is sensible to cut down your gaming time, as additional screen time will extensively affect your eyes.