You At Your Best

screen exposure since these screens are in close proximity to the eyes and use is often prolonged. Prevent Blindness America says that studies suggest continued exposure to blue light over time can lead to difficulty focusing, premature aging of the eyes and even damage to retinal cells. A recent study by the National Eye Institute found the frequency of myopia, also known as near-sightedness, has increased exponentially in the last few years. Reasons include a spike in time spent looking at things close-up and a lack of outdoor activities that require focusing elsewhere. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that a separate study recently found that excessive screen time usage in adolescents was associated with development of acute onset esotropia, or crossing of the eyes, and that limiting usage of gadgets decreased the degree of eye crossing in these patients. Eyes, just like any other muscle, require a varied workout to remain healthy. Many vision experts recommend the 20-20-20 rule. According to this rule, for every 20 minutes of looking at a screen, a person should look away at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds or more. This will help eye muscles to relax. The group All About Vision says to use proper lighting, such as ambient lighting. Position a computer monitor so that windows or lights are to the sides instead of in front or behind it. Be sure indoor light isn't too bright, as bright light can contribute to glare and fatigue. Antireflective lenses on eyeglasses or filters for screens also can help absorb some of the blue light and limit how much reaches the retina and accesses the central nerve of the eye. This may alleviate digital eye strain as well. Screen users may want to adjust the display of their devices so they feature a cool, gray tone, which produces less glare. Eyes can be adversely affected by screen time unless strategies are implemented to limit strain and to rest muscles. the frequency of myopia, also known as near-sightedness, has increased exponentially in the last few years. SATURdAY, AUgUST 25, 2018 | ViSiOn HEAlTH - SEpTEmBER nwAdg.cOm/YOUATYOURBEST | YOU AT YOUR BEST | 13 Can't get pregnant? We'll get to the bottom of it. Hope Starts Here INFERTILITY FERTILITY TREATMENT IVF DONOR PROGRAM Call 918.359.2229 (BABY) for an appointment today! 115 East 15th Street • Tulsa, OK www.TulsaFertilityCenter.com

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