Debunking the Myth: Screens Don’t Ruin Your Vision, but VR Headsets Can Cause Eye Strain and Dryness
In the age of technology, concerns about the impact of screens on our eyes have become increasingly prevalent. Many of us have heard the warnings that screens are detrimental to our vision, but is there any truth to these claims? According to experts, the answer is no. Screens ruining your vision is nothing more than a myth.
Dr. Arvind Saini, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, debunks this popular belief. He states, “Despite what many people believe, sitting too close to the TV does not damage your eyes. Screens ruining your eyes is another myth.” This revelation may come as a relief to those who spend hours in front of their screens every day.
However, while screens may not be harmful to our vision, there are other side effects associated with prolonged screen usage. One such side effect is eye strain, which is commonly experienced by users of virtual reality (VR) headsets. The Apple Vision Pro, for example, utilizes two 4K screens, one in front of each eyeball, leading to complaints of eye strain from its users.
According to Dr. Saini, these symptoms of eye strain are temporary and are likely caused by individuals not blinking enough while using VR devices. He explains that when viewing images in motion, our brains receive signals as if we were actually in motion. This can result in symptoms like dizziness and nausea. Additionally, the vergence-accommodation conflict in VR can cause eye muscles to fatigue, leading to discomfort.
While these symptoms may be uncomfortable, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that digital screens, including VR devices, are harmful to eye health. However, there are cases where VR usage can indirectly cause blood vessels to burst in the eye. Subconjunctival hemorrhages, although alarming in appearance, are generally harmless and heal on their own. They can be caused by quick pressure changes or eye trauma, but not directly by screen use or VR.
Given the increasing prevalence of screens and the growing interest in augmented reality (AR), it is essential to address the eye pain associated with these devices. VR companies have taken a conservative approach by advising users on how to use their devices safely. Most VR headset makers, for example, caution against use by children under 13 years old due to their developing bodies and eyes.
While there isn’t conclusive evidence on the negative impact of VR on children’s vision, it is recommended to limit their usage. Apple’s Vision Pro support page suggests easing into the device and taking breaks every 20-30 minutes. Meta’s compliance page echoes this advice and adds that children should be limited to two hours per day.
Dr. Saini recommends following the 20-20-20 method to mitigate eye strain. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on an object 20 feet away. This exercise helps relax the eye muscles and reduce strain. Additionally, using eye drops can provide relief for screen-related dryness.
In conclusion, screens themselves do not ruin our vision, but prolonged usage of VR headsets can lead to eye strain and discomfort. It is important to take breaks, follow recommended usage guidelines, and prioritize eye health when engaging with these technologies. While the future of technology may be exciting, it is crucial to prioritize our well-being and protect our eyes in the process.
