Suffer from Computer Eyestrain
If you suffer from computer eyestrain, here are a few more tips to help relieve the symptoms.
Blink more
Studies have shown that, during computer use, we only blink about 20 percent as frequently as we normally do. This increases the risk of dry eyes, blurred vision, eye irritations and eye fatigue. Blinking re-wets your eyes to keep them moist and comfortable.
To keep your eyes moist during computer use, blink 10 times by closing your eyes very slowly ten times. This exercise should be done every 20 minutes. Keep a bottle of artificial tears handy during prolonged computer use.
Exercise your eyes
Focusing fatigue is another cause of computer eyestrain. Research has shown that it’s harder for our eyes to maintain focus on computer-generated images than on printed images.
Reduce your risk of focusing fatigue by looking away from the computer screen every 20 minutes to focus on an object across the room. This relaxes the focusing muscles inside your eyes.
Another exercise involves looking at an object at a distance for 10-15 seconds, then at something close up for 10-15 seconds, then back at the distant object again. Repeat 10 times. This exercise reduces the risk of your eyes’ focusing system “locking up,” which is a condition called accommodative spasm.
Take frequent breaks
Reduce your risk of computer vision syndrome, as well as neck, back and shoulder pain by taking short frequent breaks away from your computer. Walk away from your desk and stretch your arms, legs, back, neck and shoulders.
Modify your workstation
Data entry tasks, such as looking back and forth between a printed page and your computer screen, can also cause eyestrain. You can improve your comfort during these tasks by putting the printed material on a copy stand adjacent to your screen or monitor. Use a desk lamp, if necessary, to illuminate the printed material, but make sure the light doesn’t shine in your eyes or onto the computer screen.
Poor posture during computer work can also contribute to computer vision syndrome. Adjust your chair to a comfortable height so that your feet are flat on the floor in front of you.
Your computer screen should be about 20 to 24 inches away from your eyes and slightly below eye level for comfortable viewing. Your head and neck should always be in a natural position.
Consider computer eyewear
You may benefit from having prescription eyeglasses customized for computer work. This is especially true if you normally wear contacts that can become dry during prolonged computer work.
Consult your eye doctor to see if this is a good option for you, bearing in mind that computer glasses, because they are a special prescription, should probably not be worn while driving.
