Computer eye strain has become more prevalent over the years as we become more glued to our screens.
It makes work and school assignments harder as your eyes water and itch. Worse, it can lead to more serious conditions like headaches and vision problems.
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This article will explain how to alleviate computer eye strain, so you can maintain your productivity and well-being.
Let your eyes rest more often
Eyecare online resource All About Vision says focusing fatigue is a common cause of computer eye strain. In other words, you may develop this issue after looking at a screen for too long.
Avoid this eye condition by blinking more often. Blink 10 times slowly every 20 minutes to rehydrate your eyes.
Moreover, you can try lubricating eye drops during extended work hours. Note that they’re different from formulated drops for red eyes.
You may also try looking away from your computer every 20 minutes and staring at a distant object for at least 20 seconds.
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Some doctors call these steps the 20-20-20 rule. Alternatively, look at a faraway object for 10 to 15 seconds. Then, gaze at something nearby for 10 to 15 seconds.
You may also give your entire body a break every hour for 10 minutes. Stand up, move about and stretch your arms and other body parts to relieve fatigue.
Make your desk more ergonomic
Australian company Dohrmann Consulting defines ergonomics as:
“The process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems to fit the people who use them.”
Ensure your desk is ergonomic to reduce computer eye strain. Mayo Clinic recommends positioning your monitor roughly 20 to 40 inches (50 to 100 cm) from you.
The top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level. If you wear eyeglasses, lower them an additional 1 to 2 inches (2 to 5 cm) for more comfortable viewing.
You must also avoid harsh interior lighting. Block exterior light by closing windows and reduce interior lighting by using fewer light bulbs.
If possible, position your computer screen so that the windows are at your side instead of in front or behind you.
Consider installing an anti-glare screen on your display.
Moreover, try repainting your walls with darker colors with a matte finish. Alternatively, work in another place with those.
Adjust your computer display settings
Monitors with low refresh rates can project a noticeable or negligible “flicker” of images, causing computer eye strain.
Adjust your display settings to the highest possible refresh rate to mitigate this issue.
Also, get a monitor with a diagonal screen size of at least 19 inches or higher.
Reduce eye strain and fatigue further by tweaking these additional settings:
- Brightness: Ensure your screen is as bright as your surrounding workstation. You can use this website’s white background for reference.
- Text size and contrast: Make text bigger and consider using black print on a white background more often.
- Color temperature: Open your monitor settings to reduce its color temperature and blue light and boost long-term viewing comfort.
Get a comprehensive eye exam
If you still struggle with computer eye strain, you may need a comprehensive eye exam. Tell your ophthalmologist your exact symptoms.
Your doctor will likely recommend bifocals or eyeglasses to alleviate your symptoms. Depending on your condition, you might receive the following types of lenses:
- Single-vision lenses: These are glasses you only use during work.
- Bifocals: These glasses have different corrections on the top and bottom.
- Progressive lenses: These lenses may have a large middle section for computer use.
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Also, you may want to request anti-glare or anti-blue light lenses. You could add that as a layer to your eyeglasses for an additional fee.
What is computer eye strain?
The American Optometric Association calls computer eye strain “digital eye strain” or “computer vision syndrome” (CVS).
These are a group of eye- and vision-related problems that stem from prolonged gadget use. CVS has the following symptoms:
- Eye strain
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Neck and shoulder pain
As mentioned, you may relieve computer eye strain with the previous steps.
Arguably, one of the best ways to alleviate it is by reducing gadget use.
Try limiting your time on the phone or computer after work or school. Also, consult your doctor if symptoms persist.