Debunking the Myth: Does Sitting Too Close to the TV Really Harm Your Eyesight?

Television has been a staple in our homes for decades, serving as a source of entertainment, information, and sometimes, a babysitter for our kids. As parents, we often find ourselves echoing warnings we heard from our own parents: “Don’t sit too close to the TV, you’ll ruin your eyes!” But how accurate is this cautionary tale that has been passed down through generations? Is it a legitimate health concern or just another myth that needs debunking? In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, the science, and the recommendations surrounding this age-old belief, aiming to provide you with the information you need to make the best choices for your family’s eye health.

Where Did This Myth Come From?

The belief that sitting close to the television can damage your eyes dates back to the early days of TV technology. Back then, televisions emitted levels of radiation that could potentially be harmful. However, modern televisions are designed with safety in mind and pose no such risks.

What Does Science Say?

While the myth that sitting too close to the TV can damage your eyes has been around for quite some time, scientific research tells a different story. Digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, itching, and headaches, is a condition that can arise from prolonged use of digital screens, including televisions (Kaur et al., 2022). However, it’s crucial to note that these symptoms are temporary and do not lead to permanent eye damage.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of digital eye strain increased, especially among children, due to the shift to digital learning and increased screen time (Desideri & Tovani-Palone, 2021). The condition has also been linked to new-onset myopia and increased progression of existing myopia, although these are not directly caused by sitting close to the TV (Basnet et al., 2022).

Management options for reducing digital eye strain include following proper ergonomics, such as reducing average daily screen time, frequent blinking, improving lighting, and taking regular breaks from the screen (Kaur et al., 2022).

Why Do Children Sit So Close?

Children often sit close to the screen because their eyes can focus better at close distances. While this is generally harmless, it could be an early sign of nearsightedness. Regular eye check-ups can help diagnose any potential issues early on.

How to Protect Your Eyes

Protecting your eyes from digital eye strain involves a combination of proper ergonomics, regular breaks, and lifestyle changes. Here are some comprehensive guidelines:

1. The 20-20-20 Rule

To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple exercise can significantly reduce the symptoms of eye strain by allowing your eyes to rest and refocus.

2. Proper Lighting

Ensure that the room is well-lit to reduce glare and eye strain. Position the light source behind you and direct it onto your workspace, avoiding direct light into your eyes. Consider using LED or full-spectrum light bulbs for a more natural light setting.

3. Screen Position and Height

The screen should be at eye level and about 4-5 feet away from you. If you’re using a computer, the top of the screen should be at or just below eye level. This position helps you maintain a natural posture and minimizes eye movement, reducing strain.

4. Screen Settings

Adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size on your screen to make reading more comfortable. Many modern devices also offer ‘Night Mode’ or ‘Blue Light Filter’ options that can reduce eye strain by limiting the amount of blue light emitted.

5. Blink Frequently

We tend to blink less when staring at screens, which can lead to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often to keep your eyes moist.

6. Take Breaks

Apart from the 20-20-20 rule, take longer breaks to walk around and stretch. This not only helps your eyes but also prevents other potential issues like neck and back pain.

7. Use Anti-Glare Screens or Glasses

Consider investing in an anti-glare screen for your monitor or anti-glare glasses. These can significantly reduce glare and reflections that contribute to eye strain.

8. Regular Eye Check-ups

Especially for children who sit close to the TV or use digital devices frequently, regular eye exams are crucial. These check-ups can help diagnose any vision problems early on and provide appropriate treatment options.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of digital eye strain and promote better eye health for you and your family.

Time To Take Action

Your eye health and that of your children are important to us at Compton Eye Associates. If you have concerns about eye strain, nearsightedness, or any other eye-related issues, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us or give us a call at 800-936-0036. Your vision is our priority!

 

References

• Kaur, K., Gurnani, B., Nayak, S., Deori, N., Kaur, S., Jethani, J., … & Mishra, D. (2022). Digital Eye Strain- A Comprehensive Review. DOI: 10.1007/s40123-022-00540-9
• Desideri, L., & Tovani-Palone, M. (2021). COVID-19 and the increased risk of myopia and digital eye strain. DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2021CE6491
• Basnet, A., Pathak, S. B., Marasini, A., Pandit, R., & Pradhan, A. (2022). Digital Eye Strain among Adults Presenting to Tertiary Care Hospital in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study. DOI: 10.31729/jnma.7092