To prevent eye strain, how often should a person take breaks from screens?

To prevent eye strain, it is recommended that individuals take breaks from screens every 20 to 30 minutes. This duration allows the eyes to relax and refocus, which can help mitigate symptoms associated with prolonged screen time, such as dryness, fatigue, and discomfort. Taking breaks helps to reduce the cumulative strain on the eyes caused by continuous visual tasks.

While some may advocate for shorter breaks, such as every 10 or 15 minutes, the 20 to 30-minute interval provides a practical balance that allows for effective rest while maintaining productivity. Longer breaks, like those taken every hour, may not be frequent enough to alleviate the strain before it becomes significant. Therefore, the recommendation to take a break every 30 minutes aligns well with optimal eye care practices for those who spend extended periods on their screens.