Does Playing Video Games Hurt Your Eyes?

Playing video games can cause eye strain, irritation, focusing issues, and more. It's important to protect your eyes if you play video games often.

This article explains some of the reasons why your eyes may hurt after playing video games. It also covers how to prevent eye strain from gaming.

Can Video Games Cause Permanent Eye Damage?

In general, playing video games does not lead to permanent eye damage. However, it can cause other issues, and in some cases, visual issues may worsen if not corrected appropriately by an eye doctor.

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)

Individuals who spend a lot of time on a computer or other screens can develop specific problems with their eyesight, and in some cases, a condition called computer vision syndrome (CVS).

Both children and adults can get computer vision syndrome.

The signs of CVS include:

• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Dry eyes
• Eye strain
• Neck, back, or shoulder pain

Symptoms of CVS can be made worse by playing games for a long time without a break. Playing in dimly lit rooms, sitting too close to the screen, or having poor posture while gaming can also worsen symptoms.

Individuals who already have problems with their eyesight are at an increased risk of getting this condition.

Focus Problems 

If your eyes hurt from playing video games, you might also have problems focusing your eyes. When looking at a screen, the eyes constantly change focus, making them very tired.

Playing video games makes the eyes "lock up." This may make it difficult for the eyes to focus easily on other objects, even long after the video game is turned off.

Eye Irritation

Video games can cause eye irritation and dryness, especially if you play for a long time without taking breaks.

You may blink less frequently while absorbed in a video game or other screen use. Not blinking enough can affect the flow of tears, and can lead to red, dry, and irritated eyes.

How Can I Protect My Eyes While Gaming?

There are steps you can take to help protect your eyes while you play video games.

Here are a few ways to reduce eye strain and protect your vision while gaming:

• Take breaks often, including "blinking breaks"
• Sit in proper posture while playing
• Use glasses with an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare from screens
• Avoid gaming in a dark room
• Make sure to get regular eye checkups, especially if you notice your vision isn't as sharp as it once was
• Use artificial tears to keep your eyes from drying out

Summary

Playing video games can affect vision. Gaming for a long time can lead to eye strain, eye irritation, and even computer vision syndrome.

There are ways to reduce eye strain from video games. Taking breaks, using artificial tears, and blinking often are some steps you can take to help protect your eyes. You should also get your eyes regularly checked by your eye doctor.