Staring at a computer screen all day can have a major impact on your eyes. Since doing so is a requirement for many people’s jobs, it’s important to be proactive if you want to guard against eye strain at the office. Being mindful of computer use and making a few adjustments can improve eye health. Try the following tactics and let your eye doctor know about any strain you’re experiencing.

How to Avoid Eye Strain

1. Use the 20-20-20 Rule

Give your eyes a break so they don’t dry out. Practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look away at a spot 20 feet away from you. Focus on it for 20 seconds. This will help relax your eyes and prevent strain. Keep this up throughout the workday while making sure you’re blinking normally to keep your eyes hydrated.

2. Use the Right Lighting

If your workspace is too bright, you’ll spend a lot of time squinting. This can range from having too many bright overhead lights or working in a dark space with a bright computer screen.

Outdoor light may also be a problem, especially if it’s reflecting off your screen. Close your blinds as needed and request that your overhead lights be dimmed to a medium level. The facilities manager may also be able to replace overhead bulbs with low-intensity ones.

3. Cut Down on Glare

It’s wise to add an anti-glare filter to your computer screen. Make sure you aren’t too close to glossy walls where light will create a glare.

If you wear prescription eyeglasses, ask your eye doctor about anti-glare lens coatings. If you don’t wear them, non-prescription computer glasses will protect your eyes and filter out blue light.

If you’re dealing with work-related vision problems, an eye doctor at Progressive Vision Group will assist. This High Point, NC, practice offers a number of services and solutions, including prescription glasses and contact lenses. They’ll address the early stages of eye problems and diseases and focus on one-on-one care. Call (336) 841-2028 to schedule an eye exam and visit their website to learn more about the practice.