Working on a computer can be harmful to your eyes. Here are some tips on how to keep your eyes healthy while working on a computer:
Treatment
Usually, treating eye problems involves changing your daily habits or environment. Some people may need treatment for an underlying eye condition.
For some people, wearing prescription glasses for certain activities such as computer use or reading can help reduce eye strain. Must Buy TheyaVue
Your doctor may suggest taking regular eye breaks to help your eyes focus at different distances.
Lifestyle And Home Remedies
Consider these tips to reduce or prevent eye strain.
Adjust the lighting. When watching television, it can be easier on your eyes if you keep the room dimly lit.
When reading printed material or working closely, try placing the light source behind you and direct the light onto your page or work.
If you’re reading at a desk, use a shade light in front of you. Shades will not allow light to shine directly into your eyes.
Take breaks when working closely, take occasional breaks and rest your eyes by looking away from the digital screen.
Limit screen time. This is especially important for young children, who may not make the connection between prolonged squinting, eye strain, and the need to rest their eyes regularly.
Use artificial tears. Over-the-counter artificial tears can help prevent and relieve dry eyes. Use it even when they feel better to keep your eyes well lubricated and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
Your doctor can suggest which eye drops may be best for you. Preservative-free lubricating drops can be used as often as needed. If the drops you use contain preservatives, do not use them four times a day. Avoid eye drops with redness relievers, as these can worsen dry eye symptoms.
Improve the air quality of your space. Some changes that can help prevent dry eyes include using a humidifier, adjusting the thermostat to reduce drafts, and avoiding smoke. If you smoke, consider quitting. Moving your chair to a different area can help reduce the amount of dry moving air on your eyes and face.
Choose the right glasses for you. If you need glasses or contacts and work on a computer, consider investing in glasses or contact lenses designed specifically for computer work. Ask your optometrist about lens coatings and tints that may help.
Tips For Computer Work
Computer use is a common cause of eye strain. If you work at a desk and use a computer, these self-care steps can help relieve some of the strain on your eyes.
Blink frequently to refresh your eyes. Many people blink less than usual while working on the computer, which can lead to dry eyes. Blinking produces tears that moisten and refresh your eyes. Try to make it a habit to blink more often while looking at the monitor.
Take an eye break. During the day, rest your eyes by looking away from your monitor. Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Check the light and reduce the brightness. Bright light and excessive brightness can strain your eyes and make it difficult to see things on your monitor.
The worst problems usually come from sources above or behind you, including fluorescent lighting and sunlight. Consider turning off some or all overhead lights.
If you need light for writing or reading, use an adjustable desk lamp. Close blinds or shades and avoid placing your monitor directly in front of a window or white wall. Place an anti-glare cover over the screen.
Adjust your monitor. Place your monitor directly in front of you at about an arm’s length so that the top of the screen is at or below eye level. You can also adjust the chair to help keep it in place.
Use a document holder. If you need to refer to printed material while working on your computer, place it on a document holder.
Some holders are designed to be placed between the keyboard and the monitor; others are sidelined. Find one that works for you.
The goal is to reduce how often your eyes need to adjust and how often you have to turn your neck and head.
Adjust your screen settings. Make the type bigger for easier reading. And adjust the contrast and brightness to a comfortable level for you.
Alternative Medicine
Natural products such as bilberry extract and omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may relieve some symptoms of eye strain, but more studies are needed. Talk to your doctor if you’re considering supplements to help relieve your signs and symptoms.
Preparing For Your Visit
If you have eye discomfort, headaches, or vision changes that don’t improve with self-care, see your doctor.
Be prepared for your visit List questions to ask your doctor. Creating a list of questions can help you make the most of your time with your doctor.