The demanding nature of jobs require us to spend hours and hours in front of computer screens. In the long run, this can have a negative effect on our eyes, causing eye strain, dryness and irritation. This is why it’s important to take good care of our eye health.
Spending too much time in front of a computer screen can have many adverse effects on the eyes. Such effects include a reduced blinking rate, dryness, itchiness, increased redness in the eyes and blurry vision. All these symptoms collectively are known as computer vision syndrome and can lead to reduced productivity and increased discomfort.
Tina Patel, Contact Lens Optician at Feel Good Contacts, stated, “Wearing contact lenses while working on computer screens can sometimes exacerbate symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), such as eye strain, dryness, and discomfort. This is because staring at screens reduces your blink rate, leading to less moisture on the eye’s surface, which can be particularly problematic for contact lens wearers. It’s worth discussing with your eye care professional to find the best options for you”.
Computer users who prefer contact lenses should ensure that their lenses have certain benefits and features to avoid worsening the computer vision syndrome. Following are some factors to consider while deciding the right contacts when working in front of a digital screen:
1. Oxygen permeability – Contact lenses made of silicone hydrogel material are ideal for longer wear. These lenses have high oxygen permeability, which means they allow a higher amount of oxygen to pass through the lens. Feel Good Contacts stocks silicone hydrogel lenses for daily, monthly, and weekly wear at competitive UK prices.
When it comes to breathable contacts, Biofinity Energys lenses are great to wear, as they allow plenty of oxygen to reach the eye for optimal comfort and help keep the eyes healthy. Featuring the Aquaform technology, this monthly lens is designed for computer use, helping the lens retain moisture. With built-in Digital Zone Optics, these lenses allow seamless vision between on and off-screen time, minimising eye strain.
2. Moisture retention – While using a computer or any digital device, we tend to blink less frequently. This leads to dry eyes and irritation. Wearing contact lenses that include a wetting agent ensures moisture stays in the lens, providing hydration throughout the day.
1 Day Acuvue Moist with Lacreon Technology contact lenses are particularly beneficial for those who experience dry eyes or irritation.
Acuvue Oasys Max 1-Day are excellent lenses for those who spend considerable time on digital devices or computers. These lenses provide exceptional clarity, thanks to the OptiBlue light filter, which provides up to 60% blue-violet light filtering. This lens also includes TearStable Technology, which distributes moisture through the lens.
3. Material – Contact lenses that feel thin, hydrating and soft will create less friction on the eye’s surface, resulting in reduced irritation and improved comfort throughout the day.
Dailies Total 1 contact lenses are perfect to wear owing to their smooth wettable surface and barely-there feel. Made of silicone hydrogel, these unique contacts feature a water gradient technology, providing a cushion of moisture all day.
Acuvue Oasys contact lenses by Johnson & Johnson are two-weekly lenses with a smooth feel. With Hydraclear® Plus technology, they ensure that the eyes stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
If you wear contact lenses and experience any issues, it is important to consult your optician. They will perform a comprehensive eye examination to assess your eye health and vision needs. Based on this assessment, they will recommend the most suitable lenses, considering factors such as your lifestyle, comfort, and any specific eye conditions you may have. Additionally, they can provide guidance on proper lens care and hygiene to ensure your eyes remain healthy.
Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eyecare professional before purchasing any products or remedies. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.