When you spend your days looking at a computer, tablet, or smartphone, eye care is essential. Too much time staring at a bright screen can cause eyestrain and headaches which can interfere with your daily life. To maintain your eye health, follow these tips whenever you're working at a computer.

Eye Care When Using Electronics

1. Take Breaks

Once every half an hour, look away from your computer screen. Pick an object on the other side of the room to look at for 20–30 seconds to refocus and rest your eyes. If you're in a small room, move to a hallway or outdoors, so you can look at something at least 20 feet away.

2. Adjust Your Brightness

A bright screen in a dark room puts extra strain on your eyes due to the contrast. Adjust your monitor to a comfortable brightness, and make sure the room is also comfortably lit.

3. Adjust Your Position

Your computer monitor should be positioned so that it is about arm's length away, with the top of the screen at or below your eye level. This is a comfortable place to rest your eyes for long periods of time.

4. Blink

When you're absorbed in your work, you may blink less often than usual, which dries out your eyes and causes irritation. Blink intentionally about once every 20 seconds. If you still experience dryness, use artificial tears to keep your eyes moistened.

5. Wear Lenses

If your optometrist has given you a prescription for glasses or contacts, use them. Working without your corrective lenses forces your eyes to work much harder, and it causes strain. Additionally, ask your optician about a blue light filter coating for your glasses.

If you need professional eye care for eyestrain or vision problems, schedule a visit to Staarmann Family Vision Center in Fairfield, OH. The optometrists and their team provide Butler County patients with compassionate, reliable, comprehensive eye care, including disease management and vision correction. For an exam or a surgery consultation, call (513) 874-1718 or reach out online.