5 steps to reduce eyestrain
Your smartphone, tablet and other screens might be to blame for your eyes feeling dry and tired and your blurry vision at the end of a day. But giving up the digital devices that cause eyestrain is not realistic or possible. So, here are five steps you can take to reduce or prevent eyestrain when using your devices.
Start with adjusting the digital device. Place your computer screen at an arm’s length from your face and just below eye level. Place an anti-glare cover over the screen as too much glare can strain your eyes. Increase the text size on the device or computer screen to make it easier to read, and play around with the brightness and contrast settings to where you’re most comfortable. You can lower the color temperature of your screen, which reduces the amount of blue light it gives off, as blue light is linked to eyestrain.
Take regular breaks and often. There’s a useful rule for device use called the 20-20-20 rule, where you take a break every 20 minutes and look at an object that’s at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds or more. If you plan on being on your device for two or more hours, take 15-minute breaks to truly give your eyes time to rest. If you wear contacts, you can give your eyes a much-needed break by wearing your glasses instead.
Improve your air quality. Dry moving air contributes to dry eye. Use a humidifier in the room where you use your devices most often. Use artificial tears to treat dry eyes. Avoid smoking and being around smoke if you can, because the smoke will dry your eyes and worsen eyestrain.
Check your lighting. Lighting can make a huge difference on eyestrain. When reading, try to position the light source behind you so the light is directed onto what you’re reading. If you’re reading at a desk, position a shaded light in front of you to keep the light from shining directly into your eyes.
Get a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye doctor can recommend glasses and contact lenses that are designed specifically for computer work. During this exam, simple refractive errors can be detected and treated, and serious eye problems or diseases can be diagnosed and treated at their earliest stage.
Regular eye exams are important in maintaining eye health. To schedule an eye exam at Papale Eye Center, contact our Springfield office today at (413) 782-0030.