how far phone from eyes

When it comes to our beloved smartphones, we seem to be glued to them, checking notifications, scrolling through social media or responding to emails. However, how much time do we spend thinking about the distance between our phone and our eyes? While we are all guilty of holding our phones too close, the truth is that it is important to consider what distance is best for your eyes.

1. The Consequences of Holding Your Phone Too Close

When you hold your phone too close to your eyes, you are increasing the strain on your eye muscles. This extra strain can cause eye fatigue, headaches, dry eyes and even nearsightedness. It is recommended that you hold your phone at least 16 inches away from your eyes to reduce the risk of these unwanted consequences.

2. The Perfect Viewing Distance

The perfect viewing distance for your phone depends on the size of your phone and the font size you are using. However, as a general rule, the ideal distance is around 16 to 18 inches away from your eyes. So, if you are using a smaller device such as an iPhone, try to hold it at least an arm's length away from your eyes. Alternatively, if you are on a larger device such as a tablet, try holding it further away from your face, ideally resting it on a flat surface and viewing it from a distance.

3. The Effects of Prolonged Use of Electronic Devices

Prolonged exposure to electronic devices, such as your phone, can cause digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. Symptoms can include headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. As such, it is essential to take regular breaks every 20 minutes to reduce eye strain and the risk of developing these symptoms. Moreover, if you spend an extended period of time on your phone, consider purchasing computer glasses to reduce the strain on your eyes.

4. The Alternatives to Holding Your Phone Up Close

If you find yourself holding your phone too close, there are many alternatives you can try. For instance, you can use a stylus pen to reduce the amount of eye strain, as well as hold your phone at a comfortable arm's length. Alternatively, you can use voice recognition software or leverage your phone's dictation feature to reduce the time spent staring at your phone screen.

5. The Importance of Good Posture

Lastly, but by no means least, good posture is essential in reducing eye strain when using your phone. This means you should sit upright with your shoulders back and chin tucked in. Not only will this reduce your risk of pain in your neck and shoulders, but it will also reduce the amount of strain on your eyes when using your phone.

In conclusion, while we are all guilty of holding our phones too close, it is essential to consider what distance is best for your eyes. Holding your phone at least 16 inches away from your face, taking regular breaks and maintaining good posture are just a few ways to reduce eye strain when using electronic devices. By following these practical tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of your smartphone without causing any unwanted harm to your eyesight.