Watching TV causes eye strain, but not myopia

Does sitting close to the television really damage your eyesight? Likewise, can spending extended periods of time in front of a computer monitor lead to eye problems?

Does sitting close to the television really damage your eyesight? Likewise, can spending extended periods of time in front of a computer monitor lead to eye problems?

The theory that spending long hours doing precision work is harmful to the eyes is not a new one. The hypothesis first emerged in the 17th century, back when scientists were calculating the paths of planetary motion. Mathematician and astronomer Johannes Kepler, who was the first to correctly identify the paths of certain planets, claimed that close work during adolescence had caused his myopia. This belief that precision work can damage the eyes has been around ever since, but research published in February 2009 shows that this fear is unfounded.

The leading risk factor for having myopia is genetics, with the risk being greater if both parents are myopic. However, spending long hours in front of a television or computer screen can cause eye strain, which manifests in some individuals as blurred vision and red or watery eyes. About 5 percent of the population is light-sensitive, which means that they experience discomfort from flickering light of specific frequencies, colours and patterns. Some people, for their part, get headaches when they spend too much time in front of the TV or computer.

In order to avoid these problems, it is best not to watch television in a dark room, to sit a little farther from the set, to sit directly in front of the computer screen and to use an anti-glare screen. It is also important to get a regular eye exam and to wear your glasses if necessary.

In conclusion, it is therefore not harmful to the eyes to spend long hours in front of the television or computer.