For the billions of people shackled to a computer each day, eye strain is a very real problem. Headaches, pain behind the eyes, redness, dryness, burning, and eye fatigue can all result from too much strain. Phoenix optometrists recommend some relief techniques to help reduce the stress on your eyes while you work.
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Take a Break
When logging hours in front of the computer, the best way to relieve eye strain is to take a break. For each 20 minutes of computer work, take 20 seconds to look 20 feet away. This is called the 20-20-20 rule and it allows your pupils to focus at varying distances.This changes how your lenses react and relieves the stress from close reading. Apps and software are available to help remind you that it’s 20-20-20 time. Build a habit of these quick breaks and you will notice that even your sleep patterns improve, having an added positive impact on your eye health.
Reduce Brightness, Glare, and Lighting
Just as inadequate lighting can cause you to squint and strain to see, so too can excessive light. You may find that harsh fluorescent lighting is just too much to bear, in which case try reducing light sources or even wearing sunglasses indoors. Close blinds or drapes to block exterior light, and ensure that light sources in the room are not reflecting off of your computer screen. Turn down the brightness of the screen, adjust the contrast and color temperature to create a more comfortable view. If you cannot make sufficient changes, talk to a doctor of optometry about wearing computer glasses or obtaining special filters for the front of your screen.
Eye Exercises
It may sound odd, but you can actually do a yoga workout for your eyes as well as the rest of your body. Doing multiple reps switching between intense focus on points in the room or on your body, followed by total relaxation of your eyes can both strengthen your eye muscles and relieve strain.
If you are a marathon computer user, talk to a doctor of optometry for more tips on how to handle eye strain. Giving your eyes the break they need can increase your productivity and reduce your suffering.
