If you work at a computer all day, you may probably be familiar with eye strain. While eye strain is a common problem, there are things you can take to reduce your discomfort. Here are some of the tips to prevent eye strain from computer screens suggested by our eye specialists:
What is eye strain?
Eye strain is a condition that can occur when your eyes are overworked. It is often caused by extended periods of staring at a computer screen or reading. Some of the common symptoms of eye strain include:
- Tired, aching or heavy eyelids
- Muscle spasms of the eye or eyelid
- Red, watery, irritated eyes
- Headaches
- Blurred vision or double vision
Here are a few ways to prevent eye strain from computer screens:
1. Use anti-glare eyeglasses :
Your eye specialist can give you an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare on prescription glasses. This can help your eyes feel comfortable. Some of the choices of lenses include:
- Bifocal lenses: Bifocals are a type of corrective lens that contain two distinct prescription powers in a single lens. The most common bifocal design features a small reading lens positioned in the lower portion of the lens, with the main distance viewing area above it.
- Single-vision lenses: If you need help seeing things up close, you would need a single-vision lens for reading. These lenses are used just for computer work.
- Progressive lenses: These lenses may have a large middle section for computer use.
Talk with your eye specialist about your daily computer use and which type of lens suits you. It is also important that you have the right prescription for your eye problem for reducing your eyestrain.
2. Use eye drops:
Using a computer for long hours could lead to causing your eyes to dry and also your eyes to get irritated due to the reduced blinking. You can use over-the-counter artificial tears whenever your eyes are feeling dry. If those eye drops do not work, talk to your eye specialist. He/she will suggest you some other medication.
3. Adjust your computer monitor and settings:
To help reduce eye strain, it is important to adjust the monitor settings. The top of the screen should be eye level and the font size should be large enough to read without strain. Also, the brightness of the screen should be adjusted so that it is not too bright or too dark. Moreover, take frequent breaks to give your eyes a chance to rest. Set your screen refresh rate at 70 to 85 Hz to avoid flickering on the computer screen.
4. Take a break:
There are some measures you can take to reduce the risks associated with extended computer use. Getting up and moving around for a few minutes will help to stretch your muscles and give your eyes a chance to rest. Also, you can try the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to look at an object 20 feet away. This will help to reduce eye muscle fatigue and strain. Here’s an interesting read on the 20-20-20 rule.
5. See an eye specialist:
Even though trying all the above solutions, if you do not get relief consult an eye specialist. Make an appointment with an eye specialist if you need new prescription glasses or medications.
Are you looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata?
To consult our eye specialist, visit the nearest branch. Our eye specialists have extensive clinical and surgical expertise in their respective fields. We offer affordable treatment for cataracts , glaucoma, and corneal diseases.