With video gaming skyrocketing as a leading form of entertainment, it’s no surprise that the industry now has over 2.6 billion gamers worldwide, as reported by Statista.
However, marathon gaming sessions come with drawbacks. A recent study that surveyed 955 participants from Australia, Canada, the US, and the UK, has revealed concerning physical symptoms linked to prolonged gaming. The study found that 46.1% of gamers experienced eye fatigue, 45.4% reported hand or wrist pain, and 52.1% suffered from back or neck pain. These physical issues emphasize the need for gamers to take better care of themselves—especially those who wear contact lenses.
Along with the common problem of eye strain, contact lens wearers may face additional symptoms like blurred vision, itchiness, and dry eyes during extended gameplay. Here are expert-backed tips to help contact lens-wearing gamers prevent irritation and fatigue and enjoy a healthier gaming experience.
Opt for daily contacts over monthlies
The American Optometric Association recommends daily contact lenses for frequent gamers. Studies indicate that individuals who wear monthly, reusable contacts face up to four times the risk of developing rare corneal infections compared to those who wear daily lenses. This heightened risk is linked to behaviors like wearing contacts for extended periods, showering or swimming in them, and even occasionally sleeping in them. With daily contacts, the risk of infection is reduced because they are discarded after each use. If you’re looking for daily contact lenses designed for comfort, try 1-Day Acuvue Oasys with HydraLuxe, available from ContactsDirect. These lenses use a tear-infused design that provides consistent hydration, making them perfect for long gaming sessions.
Avoid dry eyes with artificial tears
In a Healio article, ophthalmologist Dr. Edmund P. Farris emphasizes that gamers have a higher risk of developing dry eyes. Extended screen time reduces blinking by up to 50%, which worsens dry eye symptoms for contact lens wearers. Dr Farris suggests keeping a bottle of artificial tears nearby to refresh and rehydrate your eyes whenever dryness sets in. For optimal results, try Opti-Free Puremoist Rewetting Drops. These drops provide instant hydration and can be used up to four times per day. They also prevent deposit buildup, allowing you to wear your lenses longer and comfortably.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule between matches
Eye strain and headaches are common for gamers, particularly for contact lens users, who may be more susceptible to visual discomfort. To alleviate these symptoms, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit gives your eyes a chance to relax and reset, helping to prevent blurred vision and eye strain. In addition to these short breaks, it’s ideal to take longer, 15-minute breaks every hour or so. These extended breaks reduce the risk of headaches and eye fatigue, allowing you to return to your game with fresh eyes.
Stay hydrated and eat eye-healthy snacks
Hydration is crucial for contact lens wearers, as dry eyes are more likely to occur when you’re dehydrated. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, and keep water nearby while gaming. A steady intake of water can keep your eyes feeling comfortable and prevent lens irritation. Adding eye-friendly snacks to your gaming routine can also help. Foods rich in antioxidants, like blueberries, can be especially beneficial. Blueberries contain anthocyanins and vitamin C, which are known to promote retinal health. Studies suggest that anthocyanins may support the growth of retinal pigment epithelial cells, potentially helping to protect vision over time. Other snacks high in omega-3 fatty acids, like walnuts, are also good for eye health.