We spend hours of our day staring at screens on our laptops, tablets, TVs or smartphones. While we use these devices for work and entertainment, one health care career may have a thing or two to say about relying too much on technology. Optometrists, also known as Doctors of Optometry (ODs), are trained to treat those with vision problems and study new advances in the science. According to the American Optometric Association, there is a developing health issue called computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, and it is a growing concern for many in the optometry field.
What is digital eye strain, exactly? The symptoms include blurriness, headaches, eyestrain and shoulder pain. When we stare at electronics, we make our eyes work harder due to the blue light, viewing distance or improper posture. Consumers spend an average of seven hours on their computers every day, which can easily lead to your eyes starting to feel weak. Many doctors suggest using the 20-20-20 rule to alleviate symptoms and prevent vision strain.
If you want to help people find ways to avoid computer vision syndrome and other preventable vision issues, you may want to join the optometry profession. Optometrists help patients see clearly, through routine checkups, ocular surgeries and rehabilitation. Optometrists also have a good outlook for job security; according to an article from 2020, over 75% of the US population wears glasses or contacts and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for optometrists will grow by 4% between 2019 and 2029. By joining this workforce, you could help prevent digital eye strain and promote ocular health.
If you are interested in becoming an optometrist and helping people reduce the issues that technology can create, learn more from: