If you are sitting in front of a laptop or other computer right now and your eyes feel itchy and tired, you are 1) probably experiencing eye strain, and 2) you have probably been sitting there too long. Many of us feel like we are chained to our screens most days, but it is necessary evil in order to make a living. Whether you work remotely or in an office, there are ways to soothe your eyes and make work more palatable. Let’s list some tips for managing eye strain and fatigue.
Take Breaks
You can’t stare at something for an indefinite period of time without having your eyes tell you, “Enough!” Yet, we continue to work making our eyes suffer. Remember what mom said: everything in moderation.
Known as digitally-related eye strain, you may notice your vision gets blurry or you get a headache. However, this can happen with any other close work you do for too long a time, like sewing, reading, or writing.
Take a break at least every two hours and walk away from your desk. You can also use the 20-20-20 rule, and every 20 minutes look away to an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. You will find this helps keep you focused.
Just like every other muscle in our body, our eyes need rest to perform their best.
Try Blinking
A simple thing like blinking helps a lot. It seems when we are looking at screens, we blink less than normal, and we don’t refresh the moisture in our eyes.
Put a yellow post-it note right in front of you as a reminder. You can even make those blinks last 15 or 20 seconds and close your eyes to give them a needed rest.
Keep Those Tears Nearby
Keep a bottle of artificial tears close by to keep your baby blues moisturized throughout the day. This can also help with those annoying mild headaches.
Wear Your Glasses
If you normally wear contact lenses, switch out and wear glasses for half the day. The contacts contribute to dry eye.
You might also consider computer glasses which help to give you better vision. Talk with DOCTOR/PRACTICE about what type might be best for you.
See Your Eye Doctor
Since we are talking about seeing your ophthalmologist, be sure to go in for a thorough eye exam at least once a year.
Adjust Your Monitor And Your Lighting
Your screen should be about an arm’s length from you, and you should be looking slightly down at the screen.
Avoid sitting directly in front of a window, with one at your back, or with lots of artificial lighting. Your screen should be about the same as the light around you to avoid glare.
You can also adjust the font size to make reading more comfortable along with changing the contrast and brightness.
Check Any Air Issues
If you are working in an area right near a heating or AC vent, you might consider moving (if possible). This will dry out your eyes quickly. Try using a small humidifier near your work station.
Contact Hecht Eye Institute at (310) 370-5648 if you are experiencing frequent eye strain and fatigue.
Sources: Eyestrain: Causes, Tips for Prevention, and Treatments (healthline.com)
