We’re all guilty of spending plenty of our time staring into our computer screens, tablets, and smartphones that we often deal with eye and neck strain. Yes, we’ve been looking at our computer monitor with our head raised and spine straight, but then we forget our proper posture as the hours go by. Where we end up is a slouched position, with our neck bent at a difficult angle, and irritated eyes.
You may have already noticed that your eyes feel dry and itchy even after two hours of using your computer or your device. Add to this the fact that you are using multiple screens throughout the day, then it shouldn’t be surprising that your eyes are too strained at the end of the day.
How can you alleviate your digital eye strain then? Here are a few tips that you should follow.
Install proper lighting
Eye strain can be triggered by too much light coming from the interior or from outside source. If you are using your computer, the ambient light should be half as bright than what you find in regular offices. Install shades, blinds, or even drapes to minimize the glare. If you can, position your computer screen off to the side of the window as this will help reduce the bright light.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule
Another thing that you should remember about reducing digital eyestrain is the 20-20-20 rule. This means that every 20 minutes, you should take a break for 20 seconds at something that is at least 20 feet away.
Upgrade your computer monitor
If you are still using a CRT or cathode ray tube, it’s high time that you should switch to an LCD instead. LCD screens are much safer on the eyes because of their anti-reflective surface. You may not notice this, but CRTs tend to have this flicker that is hardly noticed, but it can add to your eye strain.
Clean your devices
Another thing that you should try to reduce your digital eyestrain is to regularly clean your devices. Not only will this get rid of the dust, but it can also reduce the glare.
Blink regularly
Some of us tend to forget to blink once we become engrossed with our work which can lead to dry and irritated eyes. This is due to the lack of moisture on your eyes hence the dry eyes the longer you use your computer or gadgets. If your dry eyes are bothering you, ask your doctor if there are any artificial tears that you can use.
Enlarge the text
It would help your eyes a lot if you don’t have to squint just to read the text. As much as possible, enlarge the size of the text in your computer or your smartphone too. This will help protect your eyes from drying out.
Have your eyes checked
Getting a comprehensive eye exam is highly recommended if you wish to protect your eyes in the long run. It is always a good idea to have your eyes seen regularly especially when you are using your computer regularly. This way, you will be able to take steps on how to reduce any strain in your eyes while working on your computer.
These are just a few tips on what you should do when you are working with your computer. The last thing you need is to be bothered with neck and eye strain all the time as these two can disturb your work. You should try these tips as much as possible to help keep your eyes fresh and less irritated.
