Re:Ask HN: How do you prevent headaches from screen use?
by throwaway-pine on Sunday November 22, 2020 @01:33PM
(#25179728)
Regarding screen use vs reading a book, I've read some discussions here regarding this, particularly on 'reflected' vs 'transmitted' light. Some HNers say there is no difference because light is still light arguing this distinction is pseudoscience, but I'm left unconvinced. An argument for the distinction I've heard is that 'transmitted' (or perhaps, better, 'emitted') light gives a false image that doesn't allow the eyes to focus well. Does anyone know (of a good article that explains) the science behind this?
[ Parent
| on HN ]
Re:Ask HN: How do you prevent headaches from screen use?
by aronpye on Monday November 23, 2020 @05:58PM
(#25192917)
I think emitted light from monitors and displays causes more eye strain than reflected light, as people tend to have their monitors set too bright and with a colour temperature that is contrasted to the ambience of the room. Whereas compared to reflected light, the reflected light is always as the same intensity and colour temperature as ambient light, thus reducing strain as the contrast is lower.
Thus, my recommendation is to set monitor brightness and colour temperature to match the ambient lighting conditions. I have no data to support this, other than my own personal comfort. I also suffer from eye floaters, so I use dark colour schemes to reduce contrast so I notice them less. A downside to this is that text can appear to be more fuzzy if you suffer from astigmatism.