Get Rid of Eye Strain due to Computer screen

• May 2, 2024

Are you are one of those who spend a lot of time on screen, whether for work, study, or leisure, you are not alone. All that screen time can hurt your eyes and you might not even notice, resulting in a widespread condition called eye strain or digital eye strain.

Do you know? According to Visual Council, 60% of American men and 65% of American women reported symptoms of digital eye strain, 80% of Americans use digital devices for at least 2 hours per day, and more than 65% of adults use two or more devices at the same time.

Let's look at some thorough yet practical ways to comfort your eyes.

Causes of Eye Strain

Eye strain happens when your eyes are overworked from using digital devices for an extended period. Here's what's causing this discomfort:

Screen Glare and Brightness

Excessive glare and brightness from screens can strain your eyes.

Blue Light Exposure

Screens emit blue light, which can disrupt sleep patterns and cause eye fatigue.

Inadequate Lighting


 

Poor lighting conditions around your screen can make it harder for your eyes to focus.

Improper Screen Distance and Position

Sitting too close or too far from your screen can strain your eyes and neck.

Extended Screen Time without Breaks

Continuous screen use without sufficient breaks can lead to eye fatigue and discomfort.

The underlying Symptoms

How do you know if you're suffering from eye strain? Keep an eye out for these signs:

Eye Discomfort

• Itchiness

When your eyes feel itchy, it could be because of multiple reasons. Staring at screens for extended periods can lead to restrictive blinking, which in turn reduces the spread of tears and moisture over the surface of the eye. This can result in a sensation of itchiness or irritation.

• Dryness

Dry eyes occur when your tear glands don't produce enough tears to lubricate the eyes adequately. Screen use can exacerbate this condition due to increased exposure to air that can cause tears to evaporate quickly.

• Watery Eyes
  
  
   

Paradoxically, dry eyes can sometimes trigger excessive tearing as a reflex mechanism to combat the dryness. This can lead to watery eyes, which can feel uncomfortable and can even blur your vision.

Other Signs

• Headaches

Persistent headaches, especially after prolonged screen use.

• Blurred Vision

Difficulty focusing on objects, both near and far.

• Neck and Shoulder Tension
  
  
   

Strain from eye discomfort can spread to your neck and shoulders.

• Increased Light Sensitivity

Bright lights may become more bothersome than usual.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it's time to take action to relieve your eye strain.

Tips to Prevent and Alleviate Eye Strain

Adjust Screen Settings

• Brightness and Contrast

Set your screen brightness to match the lighting in your environment. Adjust the contrast for optimal clarity.

• Blue Light Filter

Enable a blue light filter on your devices or invest in blue light-blocking glasses to reduce exposure.

Optimize Your Workspace

• Proper Lighting

Position your screen to avoid glare. Use indirect or adjustable lighting to create a comfortable environment.

• Ideal Screen Distance

Maintain a distance of about an arm's length (about 20-26 inches) from your eyes to the screen.

• Ergonomic Setup

Adjust your chair height and screen position so that your eyes are level with the top of the screen. Use a supportive chair with good back and neck support.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something at least 20 feet away. This simple rule helps relax your eye muscles and reduce strain.

Take Regular Breaks

Incorporate regular breaks into your screen time schedule. Use this time to stretch, move around, and rest your eyes. You can practice the 20-20-20 rule during these breaks for added benefit.

Stay Hydrated


 

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your eyes hydrated and prevent dryness.

Use Lubricating Eye Drops

If your eyes feel dry or irritated, consider using lubricating eye drops recommended by your regular eye care professional for instant relief.

Annual Eye Checkups
 

 

Schedule regular eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor your eye health and address any vision issues.

Wrapping Up

By incorporating these practical strategies into your daily routine and creating a more eye-friendly workspace, you'll not only remove discomfort but also promote long-term wellness for your eyes. Remember, a few simple adjustments can make a significant difference in how your eyes feel and function, allowing you to enjoy screen time without the burden of eye strain. Further, you can always visit a trusted eye clinic like Good Service Eye Clinic and consult with the best eye specialists for enhanced treatments and care.

Your eyes deserve the best care, so prioritize these tips now!