Gaming has become a favourite pastime for many people, especially since the pandemic has forced many to stay indoors. However, prolonged gaming sessions can cause eye strain, leading to headaches, fatigue, and even long-term vision problems. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce eye strain during gaming. Here are three pointers from our optometrist that can help.

Adjust Your Monitor’s Brightness and Contrast

A common cause of eye strain during gaming is the brightness and contrast of your monitor. If your monitor is too bright, it can cause glare, which can strain your eyes. Conversely, if your monitor is too dim, it can also strain your eyes, as you’ll have to strain to see the details on the screen. Adjusting your monitor’s brightness and contrast to a comfortable level for your eyes is essential.

To do this, you can use the monitor’s built-in controls. Most modern monitors have a menu button that adjusts brightness and contrast. You can also use software like f.lux, which adjusts the colour temperature of your monitor based on the time of day. This can make the colours on your screen more comfortable, reducing eye strain.

Take Breaks and Blink Frequently

Another common cause of eye strain during gaming is staring at the screen for too long without taking breaks. You usually blink less when you look at a screen for a long time. This causes dry eyes and eye strain. So it is essential to take breaks and blink frequently during gaming sessions.

A way around this is the 20-20-20 rule. Look away from your device screen for 20 seconds to see something 20 feet from you at 20-minute intervals. This gives your eyes a period of rest and refocus. You can also blink more frequently to keep your eyes lubricated. 

If you need help remembering these breaks, set a timer on your device or use an app like EyeLeo, which reminds you to take breaks.

If regular eye breaks don’t work and your eyes still feel strained, it’s time to visit an optometrist.

Use Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Electronic screens emit blue light, including computer monitors, TVs, and smartphones. Exposure to blue light can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle, leading to sleep problems, and it can also cause eye strain and headaches. Reducing your exposure to blue light during gaming sessions is essential.

Blue light-blocking glasses have a special lens that filters out blue light, reducing your exposure to this type of light. Blue light-blocking glasses are available in prescription and non-prescription versions, so you can choose the one that is right for you.

Ensure Your Kid’s Eyes Are Healthy with Our Eye Exams

Eyestrain is a common problem during gaming sessions. Still, it can be reduced by adjusting your monitor’s brightness and contrast, taking breaks and blinking frequently, and using blue light-blocking glasses. By following these three pointers, you can enjoy your gaming sessions without putting too much strain on your eyes. Maintaining good eye hygiene, such as cleaning your monitor regularly and keeping it at a comfortable distance from your eyes, is also essential. These simple steps let you keep your eyes healthy and enjoy your gaming sessions fully.

Visit Optiko Eyewear, the Calgary-based optical store offering comprehensive eye care services and products. Whether it’s a detailed eye examination or a vast selection of designer frames, our Market Mall and Sunridge Mall clinics have you covered. Book an appointment with our optometrist in Calgary by calling our Sunridge Mall branch at (403) 457-7000 or our Market Mall branch at (403) 457-7001!