Many people around the world have jobs that require them to look at a computer screen throughout the day.
How does this affect your eyes? It causes a condition called eye strain, and it can be a real discomfort after a short period of time.
Eye strain is a condition where your eyes get tired from extreme use through long periods of driving or, more commonly, long periods of staring at a screen such as a phone, tablet or computer. This happens because people tend to blink less when they look at a computer screen, the device has a glare or a reflection, you’re reading digital print, or a combination of these reasons and more.
So how do you rest your eyes while using a computer throughout the day? Check out these five ways to start resting your eyes, curated by the experienced eye care specialists at VisionQuest.
1. Take Regular Breaks
It’s very helpful for people to take regular breaks throughout the day if they look at computer screens. Ideally, you would take one about every 20 minutes or so by looking off of your screen and focusing on something else for a minute or two.
Understandably, that may not be an option, so one could shoot for every hour. Stand up, stretch, take a short walk around the building or around the block. Practice blinking at regular intervals to moisturize your eyes.
2. Reduce Glare
Many people may not know, but it’s harder for your eyes to read letters on a screen than in print. The contrast on the screen compared to the letters is what allows your eyes to be able to read them.
If the glare on your screen is high, let’s say from lights or windows, it can make your eyes work even harder to read the letters and lead to light sensitivity.
To avoid this, simply reposition your computer to a more optimal position. Close the blinds of windows by your desk or try lower-watt light bulbs in your home or office. If you can’t do this, consider a glare screen for your computer.
3. Adjust Your Monitor
Your monitor could be playing a role in your daily eye strain. Proper placement of your monitor can make for a more comfortable position for both your spine and your eyes, putting them at the proper distance from the screen.
The best way to do this is to get a screen that’s large enough for you to easily read the words. If you can’t, at least enlarge the words so your eyes can see them better.
Your monitor should be about 20 to 20 inches away. Any closer or farther and your eyes strain. If you set your monitor just below eye level it can help reduce the evaporation of the helpful liquid around your eye as well.
4. Adjust Your Seating Position
The chair or seat you sit in should be comfortable for you to be in for long periods of time. It should be supportive of your lower and upper back while also at a height where your feet rest flat on the floor.
If your chair has arms, they should be adjusted so your arms can be supported. Your wrists shouldn’t rest on the keyboard while you type!
5. Ask the Expert (Your Eye Doctor)
When it comes down to it, the person who knows the best way to handle your possible eye strain or fatigue is your eye doctor. They are the ones who went to school for this and understand the inner and outer workings of the eye.
Make sure you write down your daily symptoms and how long they go on for. Maybe even take a picture of the area you sit so your doctor can see the environment you work in.
Schedule an Appointment
Here at VisionQuest, we understand the daily activities that play a role in your eye health even if you don’t. That’s why it’s so important for you to get your annual eye exam to make sure everything is working properly and will continue to do so in the future.
Dr. Chris Browning is a Greenwood native, who has been serving the community through glaucoma care and myopia management. He studied at Indiana University Bloomington and the Indiana University School of Optometry. As he has severe nearsightedness himself, Dr. Browning is passionate about helping others to achieve excellent vision.