Chances are, you use computers in the workplace, and while they’re helpful in a multitude of ways, they can cause eye strain. That eye strain can lead to blurry vision and even headaches and neck pain.
According to recent studies, as many as 90% of people who spend extended time in front of digital screens experience some sort of eye strain or related eye issues. While giving up computers all together may not be an option, you can take steps to keep your eyes safe while on the job and at home. Our experts at McDonald Eye Care Associates discuss practical tips to protect your eyes from eye strain.
Tip 1: Get an eye exam
Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam is one of the key steps in preventing eye strain related to computer screens. Our team at McDonald Eye Associates offers comprehensive eye exams to detect any visual issues and can explain how to keep your eyes safe from eye strain while at work.
Tip 2: Adjust your screen position
People have a habit of sitting close to their computer screen, but sitting too close to your screen contributes to eye strain. Adjusting your screen position is a simple and easy step you can take to protect your eyes. You should sit at least 20-30 inches away from your screen and position the top of your screen at eye level. This not only reduces the chances of eye strain; it prevents neck strain.
Tip 3: Tackle office lighting
When it comes to screen time in the workplace, lighting is everything. Offices that have too much natural or artificial light increase glare on your screen, which spells trouble for your eyes. Try tackling the glare in your office to ease the strain on your eyes.
Depending on your office setup, you may need to partially close blinds or draw shades halfway closed. You may also need to turn off any harsh lights or position your screen to prevent direct sunlight from causing glare.
Tip 4: Use an anti-glare filter
Anti-glare screen filters are a simple way to cut down on the amount of light that reflects off of your computer screen while you work. The result is a more pleasant viewing experience that won’t result in eye fatigue and strain.
Tip 5: Consider anti-glare glasses
Anti-glare glasses have a coating that reduces glare and reflections to protect your eyes. This is an excellent option if you use laptops, cell phones, and other devices along with standard desktop computers.
Tip 6: Take a break
Rest breaks for your eyes are something your grandparents didn’t have to plan into their day. But today we spend more and more time at our computer screens and need to consider giving our eyes a rest throughout the day. It’s best to give your eyes a short break after every two hours of continuous screen time. This could mean taking a five-minute walk to the watercooler during your workday.
Tip 7: Adjust your screen settings
Electronic manufacturers are pushing the boundaries with vivid screens that display colors and images that appear vibrant and bright. While this may look stunning, your eyes weren’t meant to look at bright, vivid screens for hours at a time. Going into your computer’s settings and turning down the brightness and backlight can go a long way in preventing eye strain.
Tip 8: Upgrade your monitor
If you use a traditional desktop, consider upgrading your monitor. LCD monitors are more gentle on your eyes than older technologies. A high-resolution LCD monitor is able to display crisp, sharp images without problems with flicker, so your eyes are in less jeopardy when working at the computer.
Tip 9: Blink more
Did you know that when you stare at a screen for long periods of time it causes you to blink less often? When you blink less, your eyes can become dry and irritated, increasing the risk of eye problems. When at the computer, make it a point to blink normally and fully. If you find that your eyes feel dry, use artificial years to keep them moist.
At McDonald Eye Care Associates, we are a full-service eye care practice. For more information or to schedule a routine exam, call our Lakeville, Minnesota, office.
