How to Keep Your Eyes Healthy While Playing Video Games

Jun 08, 2020

Video games allow hours of entertainment in worlds that only animation, graphics and creativity could dream up. However, playing them can sometimes come at a cost to your eyes

If you get headaches easily or have vision problems, you know the importance of playing video games the right way. The following tips can help you keep your eyes healthy while gaming.

1. Invest in the Right Monitor

Whether you’re new to gaming or have been playing for a while, you know that a screen and monitor can make or break your experience. Sometimes the screen is too small and you can’t see everything you need to. Other times you need to customize its features for the best viewing and gameplay. 

Regardless, you should look into monitors for video games that are beneficial for long periods of play. Some have eye care options and settings that reduce blue light, which is detrimental to your eyesight.

2. Distance Yourself

Distancing yourself can take the form of a break, but you’ll also want to maintain a decent physical distance away from your screen. When you get too close, the light can hurt your eyes. If you keep space in between you and your monitor, though, you can protect your eyesight. Sit close enough so you can see, but not too close where it hurts your eyes.

A common rule that helps is the 20-20-20 method for preventing eyestrain. Look away from the screen at something that’s 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Doing this will refresh and relax your eyes. 

3. Adjust the Lighting

One thing you’ll commonly hear is not to play in the dark. The contrast of a vibrant, bright screen with darkness around you is a lot for your eyes to handle. Conversely, anything that’s too bright can hurt as well. You’ll want to find the balance of lighting in your room that feels comfortable. 

In terms of your screen, you can adjust its lighting as well. Almost all computers allow you to change their brightness. Some video games enable adjustments in vibrancy or intensity. 

4. Buy Blue Light Glasses

Blue light can sometimes be harsh on your eyes. Warmer tones typically feel more comfortable to look at, especially in darker settings. Though some studies say that the effects of blue light are negligible, it can still give you a headache. To prevent discomfort, you can look into blue light glasses. 

These glasses block the blue light that screens of all kinds emit — mobile devices and desktop setups alike. That way, you can play easier and not have to worry about irritating your eyes. Also, remember to blink, because dry eyes can be a problem, too.

5. Take a Break

Something you should also consider during long periods of gameplay is taking a break. Your eyes need time to rest and be away from a screen for a little while. You can plan these breaks according to the type of game you’re playing. If it’s live with other people, you can rest between rounds. Otherwise, you can pause it after cutscenes or levels. 

Try to take a break every hour or two. Rest your eyes and do something mindless for five to 15 minutes. Afterward, you can get right back to playing, knowing that your eyes are ready to go. 

Healthy Eyes and Video Games

When you take these steps, you ensure your eyes have the best care. Video games are a gateway to new worlds and creativity, but you’ll want to be careful not to damage your vision. Healthy practices for your eyes will make playing video games more enjoyable. 

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