Computer eye strain is common and widespread in modern life. Symptoms include dry or irritated eyes, blurry vision, headaches, and back and neck issues. However, there are ways to mitigate vision problems caused by computers. Here, the eye doctors at Tri-State Eye, serving Middletown, NY, and Milford, PA, share a few tips. 

How to Help Minimize Computer Eye Strain

1. Adjust Lighting

Computer screens emit a lot of glare and have their own inner blue light which is stressful for eyes after a few hours. To help reduce glare and contrast in the work area, make the ambient light in the room about half as light as the computer screen. Try to have windows to the side, rather than behind or in front of the work station. Turn off fluorescent lights if that is possible. Consider getting specially coated computer glasses from an eye doctor to reduce glare and help diffuse blue light.

2. Adjust Computer Monitor

Adjust the brightness that comes from the screen using the keys on the keyboard or in computer/system preferences. There, you can also reduce the color temperature to lessen the amount of blue light emitted. If you work with long documents or with text all day long, change the text size and contrast. 

3. Take Blink & Exercise Breaks

Staring at screens decreases the blink rate, which causes eyes to become dry and irritated. Every 20-30 minutes take a few moments to blink slowly several times, as if you are falling asleep. This will help re-lubricate the eyes. You can use artificial tears too, but avoid drops that remove redness, as they can cause more irritation with prolonged use. Every hour or so, get up for a stretch break and to “reset” your posture which can become stiff and hunched over the screen—especially if you are struggling to see.

4. Get an Eye Exam

You may have trouble seeing without realizing it or may need an update to an existing prescription. An eye exam will help diagnose and treat potentially serious conditions early while they are still manageable. If you work on a computer or other screen-type device more than two hours a day, computer glasses will noticeably reduce eye strain. An eye doctor can discuss the types of lenses available to you. 

Your eyes may hurt after a long day in front of the computer, but by following these suggestions, you can reduce strain and preserve eye health. For more tips, contact the eye doctors at Tri-State Eye. They offer preventive care, treatment for diabetic eye problems, glaucoma, and cataracts, and laser eye surgery. Call (845) 703-2020 for an appointment in Middletown or (570) 296-9696 in the Milford clinic. Visit the website for a comprehensive list of services.